BANCROFT    LIBRARY 


THE 

CAMPAIGNS 


OF 


WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 


BY  A  PKIYATE  SOLDIER. 


CONTAINING  A 

COMPLETE  RECORD  OF  THE  CAMPAIGNS  IN  TEXAS,  LOUISIANA  AND  ARKANSAS; 

THE  SKIRMISH  AT  PERKINS1  LANDING  AND  THE  BATTLES  OF  MILLIKEN'S 

BEND,  BAYOU  BOURBEUX,  MANSFIELD,  PLEASANT  HILL,  JENKINS' 

FERRY,  &c.,  &c.,  INCLUDING  THE  FEDERAL'S  REPORT  OF  THE 

BATTLES,  NAMES  OF   THE  OFFICERS  OF  THE   DIVISION, 

DIARY  OF    MARCHES,   CAMP    SCENERY,  ANECDOTES, 

DESCRIPTION    OF    THE    COUNTRY    THROUGH 

WHICH  THE  DIVISION  MARCHED,  &c.,  &c. 


"  When  on  the  field  of  freedom  bled, 

I  press  the  ashes  of  the  brave  ; 
Marveling  that  man,  should  ever  dread, 

Thus  to  wipe  out  the  name  of  slave  ; 
No  deep-drawn  sigh  escapes  my  breast — 

No  woman  drops  my  eyes  distain  ; 
I  weep  not,  gallant  hearts,  at  rest— 

I  but  deplore  they  died  in  vain." 


NEW  YORK: 

PUBLISHED  FOR  THE  AUTHOR 
BY  LANGE,   LITTLE   &  CO.,   PRINTERS, 

108  TO  114  WOOSTER  STREET. 
1875. 


Entered  according  to  Act  of  Congress,  in  the  year  1875,  by 

J.    P.  BLESSINGTON, 
In  the  office  of  the  Librarian  of  Congress,  at  Washington. 


LANGK,  LITTLB  &  Co., 

PRINTERS,  ELKCTROTYPKRS  AND  STBRBOTYPEES, 
108  TO  114  WOOSTER  ST.,  N.  Y. 


a.e  j 


DEDICATION. 


THIS  volume,  with  its  many  imperfections,  is,  with  feelings  of  pro- 
found respect  and  admiration  for  officers  and  soldiers,  and  the  cause 
for  which  they  fought,  dedicated  to  Major-General  JOHN  G.  WALKER, 
and  the  dead  and  living  of  the  gallant  soldiers  of  his  Division  of  the 
Confederate  States  Army,  by  one  who  has  had  the  honor  to  fight  under 
and  with  them,  but  whose  rank  never  exceeded  that  of  a 

PRIVATE  SOLDIER, 


CONTENTS. 


PAGE 

.CHAPTER  I. 
The  Texas  Soldier 13 

CHAPTER  II. 
The  Private  Soldier 16 

CHAPTER  III. 

The  Organization  of  the  16th  Texas  V.  Infantry  at  Camp  Groce. — De- 
scription of  Camp  Groce  and  Camp  Hebert. — Camp  Life. — Presen- 
tation of  Colors. — The  Departure. — Reception  at  Houston. — Camp 
at  Virginia  Point. — Camp  Scenes  and  Camp  Amusements. — Night 
Alarm. — Scenes  on  Picket 19 

CHAPTER  IV. 

Marching  Orders. — Return  to  Camp  Groce. — Storm  in  Camp. — Parting 
Scenes. — En  route  for  Little  Rock. — On  the  March. — A  Review. — 
Special  Order. — Camp  Texas. — March  through  Little  Rock. —De- 
scription of  Little  Rock 29 

CHAPTER  V. 

March  from  Little  Rock  to  Clarendon  Heights. — Crossing  Grand  Prairie. 
•  — Camp  at  Clarendon  Heights. — En  route  for  Camp  Nelson. — Re- 
crossing  Grand  Prairie. — Suffering  of  the  Troops. — Arrival  at 
Camp  Nelson. — Organization  of  the  Division. — Names  of  Officers. — 
Departure  of  Deshler's  Brigade. — Sickness  in  Camp. — General  Re- 
view.— Night  Alarm 40 

CHAPTER  VI. 

Leave  Camp  Nelson. — Arrival  at  Bayou  Metor.— Grand  Review  of  the 
Division. — The  Division  ordered  to  Vicksburg. — En  route  for  Van 
Buren. — Camp  near  Little  Rock. — Spending  Christmas  in  Camp. — 
Special  Order 61 

CHAPTER  VII. 

March  from  Little  Rock  to  Pine  Bluff. — Counter-marching. — General 
Walker  assumes  command  of  the  Division. — Hog  Stealing. — De- 
scription of  Pine  Bluff. — En  route  for  Arkansas  Post. — Dispatches 
from  General  Churchill  to  General  Walker. — Surrender  of  the  Ar- 
kansas Post. — Camp  Freeze-Out. — Picket  Duty. — Arrival  of  General 
Holmes. — Fortifying  at  Camp  Freeze-Out 66 

CHAPTER  VIII. 
Biographical  Sketch  of  Major-General  John  G.  Walker 72 

CHAPTER  IX. 

Return  to  Pine  Bluff. — Camp  Mills  and  Camp  Wright. — Description  of 
Camp  Wright. — Card-playing. — General  Haws  assumes  command 
of  the  1st  Brigade.— Marching  Orders. — General  Holmes'  Farewell 
Address  to  the  Division 75 


6  CONTENTS. 

CHAPTER  X.  PAGE 

The  Division  moves  to  Louisiana. — Arrival  at  Ouachita  City. — A  New 
mode  of  Traveling. — Excursion-trip  on  the  Washita  River. — Over- 
land Route  to  Alexandria. — A  Free  Ride. — Description  of  Alexan- 
dria   79 

CHAPTER  XL 

Expedition  up  the  Tensas  River. — A  Night-march  to  Perkins'  Landing.     85 

CHAPTER  XII. 

Skirmish  at  Perkins'  Landing. — A  Negro  Description  of  the  Cannonad- 
ing.— Official  Report  of  the  Skirmish 87 

CHAPTER   XIII. 

The  Division  crosses  the  Tensas  River. — March  to  Milliken's  Bend  and 
Young's  Point. — Scenes  before  the  Battle 93 

CHAPTER    XIV. 

The  Battle  of  Milliken's  Bend. — Operations  of  Haws'  Brigade  at  Young's 
Point. — Genera]  McCulloch's  Report  of  the  Battle.— General  Walk- 
er's Report  of  his  Division  at  Milliken's  Bend  and  Young's  Point. — 
Federal  Report  of  the  Battle 95 

CHAPTER  XV. 

Retreat  from  Richmond. — Gallant  Conduct  of  the  18th  Regiment  and 
Edgar's  Battery. — Heroism  of  a  Private  Soldier.— Tappan's  Brigade 
to  the  Rescue.  —Arrival  at  Delhi 110 

CHAPTER  XVI. 

March  from  Delhi  in  the  direction  of  Goodrich's  Landing. — Texas  Cav- 
alry.— Capture  of  Fort  Mound. — Return  to  Delhi. — The  Appearance 
of  the  Troops. — Fall  of  Vicksburg. — Surmises  about  the  Surrender 
of  Vicksburg. — On  the  Cars. — Arrival  at  Monroe 113 

CHAPTER  XVII. 

General  Walker's  Official  Reports  of  the  Operations  of  his  Division  in 

Madison  and  Carroll  Parishes. — After  the  Battle  of  Milliken's  Bend.  119 

CHAPTER  XVIII. 

March  from  Monroe  to  Alexandria. — General  McCulloch  leaves  the 
Division. — Amusing  Anecdotes  of  an  Ordnance  Sergeant  en  route 
for  Berwick  Bay. — Operations  of  General  Dick  Taylor. — The 
"Greyhounds"  resting. — Capture  of  Fort  Beauregard. — The  Grey- 
hounds on  the  Enemy's  Trail. — Preparing  for  Battle. — Arrival  of 
General  Scurry 127 

CHAPTER  XIX. 

The  Battle  of  Bayou  Bourbeaux.— Official  Report  of  the  Battle. — Gen- 
eral Taylor's  Congratulatory  Address  to  the  Troops  of  Walker's 
Division. — Federal  Report  of  the  Battle 138 

CHAPTER  XX. 
On  the  March. — Expedition  across  the  Atchafalaya  Bayou 150 


CONTENTS.  7 

CHAPTER    XXI.  PAGE 

General  Walker's  Eeport,  giving  his  Reasons  for  failing  to  attack  Pla- 

quemine 155 

CHAPTER  XXII. 

Re-crossing  the  Atchafalaya  Bayou. — March  to  Bayou  De  Glaize  and 
Marksville. — Fortifying  at  Yellow  Bayou. — Spending  Christmas  in 
Camp. — Preaching  in  Camp. — Opening  of  the  New  Year. — Match 
Drill. — General  Haws  leaves  the  Division.— Arrival  of  General 
Waul. — Cotton  Selling. — Operations  of  Scurry's  Brigade. — Landing 
of  the  Enemy  at  Simmsport 157 

CHAPTER  XXIII. 

The  Retreat  from  Yellow  Bayou  to  Mansfield. — General  Scurry's  Report. 
— Line  of  Battle. — Capture  of  Fort  DeRussy. — "Bull  Battery." — A 
Stampede.— Arrival  of  the  Enemy  at  Alexandria. — Forced  Marches. 
— Capture  of  Edgar's  Battery  and  the  2d  Louisiana  Cavalry. — Pre- 
paring for  Battle. — Double-quicking. — Arrival  of  Green's  Cavalry. .  169 

CHAPTER  XXIV. 
The  Battle  of  Mansfield.— Official  Report  of  the  Battle 182 

CHAPTER  XXV. 
The  Battle  of  Pleasant  Hill 193 

CHAPTER  XXVI. 

Scenes  after  the  Battle 201 

CHAPTER  XXVII. 

General  Taylor's  and  Governor  Allen's  Addresses  to  the  Army  of  Western 

Louisiana 203 

CHAPTER   XXVIII. 

The  Federal  Report  of  the  Battles  of  Mansfield  and  Pleasant  Hill,  and 

the  Retreat  of  the  Federal  Army 207 

CHAPTER    XXIX. 

Marching  Orders. — En  route  for  Camden. — Death  of  General  Tom  Green. 
—Arrival  of  the  3d  Texas  Infantry.— Names  of  the  Officers. — 
March  through  Shreveport  and  Minden. — General  Kirby  Smith's 
Address. — Operations  of  the  Arkansas  and  Missouri  Cavalry. — 
Evacuation  of  Camden. — In  pursuit  of  the  Enemy. — Desolation  of 
the  Country.— Breakers  ahead 241 

CHAPTER  XXX. 
The  Battle  of  Jenkins's  Ferry.— The  Federal  Report  of  the  Battle 249 

CHAPTER  XXXI. 
The  Burial  of  Generals  Scurry  and  Randall 256 

CHAPTER  XXXII. 

Return  to  Camden. — General  Kirby  Smith's  Address  to  the  Soldiers  of 
the  Trans-Mississippi  Department. — En  route  for  Alexandria. — 
Promotions. — General  Taylor's  Address  to  the  Cavalry  and  Po- 
lignac's  Division. — Camps  near  Alexandria 259 


8  CONTENTS. 

CHAPTER  XXXIII.  PAGB 

The  Enemy's  Retreat  from  Pleasant  Hill. — Fortifying  at  Grand-Ecore. 
Vindication  of  General  Kirby  Smith. — Destruction  of  the  Country. 
— Critical  Position  of  the  Enemy  at  Alexandria. — Burning  of  Alex- 
andria.— Fighting  at  Yellow  Bayou 265 

CHAPTER  XXXIV. 

March  from  Pineville  to  Snaggy  Point. — Storm  in  Camp. — General 
Walker  leaves  the  Division. — Organization  of  the  Artillery. — 
March  to  the  Mississippi  River. — General  Walker's  Orders  to  Gen- 
eral King. — Preparations  to  cross  the  Mississippi  River. — General 
Taylor's  Plan  thwarted. — Failure  to  cross  the  Mississippi  River 269 

CHAPTER   XXXV. 

On  the  March. — General  Forney  takes  command  of  the  Division. — Ar- 
rival at  Monticello. — Grand  Review. — March  from  Monticello  io 
Camden. — Fortifying  Camden. — March  from  Camden  to  Camp 
Sumter. — March  from  Camp  Sumter  to  Camp  Magruder. — Win- 
ter Quarters. — Description  of  Camp  Magruder. — Amusements  in 
Camp. — Anecdotes,  etc. — Sham-Battle. — General  Review 275 

CHAPTER  XXXVI. 

En  route  for  Shreveport. — Grand  Review  of  the  Division. — Grand  Bar- 
becue given  by  the  Ladies  of  Louisiana  to  the  Division 286 

CHAPTER  XXXVII. 

General  Buckner's  Address. — On  the  March. — Dismounting  the  Caval- 
ry.— Reinforcements. — Organization  of  the  4th  Brigade. — Searching 
for  Honey . .  291 

CHAPTER  XXXVIII. 

Homeward  Bound. — Retrograde  Movement. — Line  of  March. — Generals 
Smith,  Magruder,  and  Forney's  Addresses  to  the  Soldiers. — Negotia- 
tions for  the  Surrender  of  the  Trans-Mississippi  Department. — Ar- 
rival at  Hempstead. — Disbanding  of  the  Troops. — Farewell  Parting.  298 

CHAPTER  XXXIX. 

The  "  Personnel "  of  the  Division,  and  How  they  accept  the  Situation. .  308 
CHAPTER  XL. 

Surrender  of  the  Trans-Mississippi  Department 310 

Appendix 312 

Conclusion ..  313 


PREFACE. 


presenting  the  following  pages  to  the  public,  I  trust 
I  am  not  ignorant  of  my  presumption ;  and  can  only 
'  P§l  °ffer>  as  an  aP°l°gy>  ^ne  neglect  heretofore,  of  abler 
pens  than  mine,  to  rescue  from  probable  oblivion  the  deeds 
and  prowess  of  "  Walker's  Division  "  of  Texas  troops  of  the 
Confederate  States  Army. 

To  me  the  task  has  been  a  labor  of  love — still,  one  I  would 
have  preferred  had  been  undertaken  by  some  one  more  com- 
petent, who  could  in  a  measure  do  justice  to  the  noble  sub- 
ject ;  for  surely  it  would  require  the  pen  of  a  Thucydides,  to 
give  a  full  and  graphic  account  of  the  battles,  advances,  and 
retreats,  in  which  "  Walker's  Division  "  participated  during 
the  late  civil  war. 

To  the  student  of  military  science,  the  following  pages 
will  not  be  likely  to  afford  much  matter  of  interest,  in  a 
scientific  point  of  view,  as  they  are  written  by  one  whose 
position  as  a  private  soldier  precluded  a  knowledge  of  the 
strategic  reasons  for  the  marches  and  battles  which  he  merely 
chronicles. 

That  "  truth  is  stranger  than  fiction  "  is  an  axiom  as  correct 
as  it  is  right.  Thus  I  claim  for  these  pages  of  history  a  strict 
adherence  to  truthfulness  in  recording  actual  occurrences — 
facts  gathered  from  the  great  and  bloody  drama  of  the  late 
war,  around  which  lingers  the  halo  of  imperishable  glory, 
possessing  all  the  fascination  and  interest  of  romance.  This 
record  has  been  jotted  down  on  the  long  and  weary  march, 
in  the  quiet  camp,  before  and  after  the  fierce  conflict  of 


10  PEEFACE. 

deadly  strife.  A  correct  record  of  events  as  they  actually 
occurred,  it  is  presented  to  the  public.  I  have  indulged 
in  few  fancies  of  the  imagination,  nor  do  I  claim  for  this  work 
any  peculiar  literary  excellence.  Simple  in  construction  of 
sentences,  unpretending  in  style  of  composition,  it  is  given  to 
the  public  for  perusal,  as  one  of  the  many  bloody  chapters  in 
the  history  of  the  late  revolution,  when  Southerners  endeav- 
ored, by  force  of  arms,  to  establish  their  independence,  and 
preserve  untarnished  the  principle  of  constitutional  liberty 
bequeathed  to  them  by  their  ancestors,  and  baptized  and  con- 
secrated with  their  best  blood,  from  the  despotic  domination 
of  Eadicalism. 

Let  the  thousands  of  the  loyal  and  true  hearts  that  sleep 
beneath  the  blood-enriched  soil  of  Louisiana  and  Arkansas 
answer.  Let  the  glorious  muster-roll  of  heroes  and  martyrs 
in  our  cause  reply  whether  they  were  right  or  wrong  in  striking 
a  blow  for  their  freedom.  The  attempt  has  failed ;  and  while 
the  Southern  people  accept  the  issue  of  the  struggle  as  the 
unalterable  decree  of  a  mysterious  Providence,  records  of 
the  past,  as  contained  in  this  volume,  will  be  regarded  as 
priceless  mementoes  of  heroic  deeds  and  an  imperishable 
epitome  of  gallant  achievements,  fierce  conflicts,  determined 
valor,  and  patient  and  long-enduring  sufferings  of  those  brave 
men  who  sacrificed  their  lives,  and  devoted  their  energies 
and  efforts  towards  the  establishment  of  long-cherished  prin- 
ciples and  institutions. 

Mere  history  can  furnish  only  a  tittle  of  the  vivid  reality  of 
warlike  scenes.  Perusing  its  pages,  the  reader  gleans  only  the 
record  of  gallant  achievements — lives  in  the  midst  of  scenes 
befitting  a  romance,  and  not  stern  realities.  Thus  there  is  a 
strange  fascination  in  such  compilations.  War  has  existed 
almost  since  the  creation  of  the  universe,  and  its  records, 
from  ancient  days  down  to  modern  times,  when  Napoleon 
.'electrified  the  world  with  his  brilliant  victories,  possess  pecu- 
liar attractions  and  deep  interest.  Yet  the  reader  gathers  not 
from  the  pages  of  history,  with  its  glowing  descriptions,  and  all 
the  attendant  pomp  and  glory  of  the  struggle,  its  attendant 


PREFACE.  11 

horrors,  the  deadly  suffering,  and  unbearable  anguish  which 
accompany  the  dark  side  of  the  brilliant,  fascinating  picture. 

'Tis  well  that  it  should  be  so.  There  are  few,  however, 
especially  in  this  suffering,  ruined  Southern  land,  who  do  not 
understand,  aye,  know,  from  experience  dearly  purchased, 
what  war  means,  in  the  fullest  signification  of  the  term. 

This  book  is  a  chapter  from  its  bloodiest  record.  The 
author  has  labored  under  peculiar  disadvantages,  being 
deprived  of  official  records  and  documents,  and  has  been 
compelled  to  rely  on  his  present  experience  and  information, 
and  such  notes  and  papers  as  could  be  obtained  from  the 
surviving  members.  In  order  to  make  my  work  acceptable  to 
the  general  reader,  I  give  a  sketch  of  the  battles  in  which  the 
division  participated,  but  making  a  diary  of  our  marches  the 
leading  feature. 

If  I  have  failed  in  presenting  as  complete  and  interesting  a 
work  as  the  subject  demands,  it  is  a  fault,  not  of  the  head  or 
heart,  but  simply  because  my  sources  for  obtaining  necessary 
information  have  been,  not  only  limited,  but  very  meager. 

I  do  not  write  this  work  from  any  mercenary  motives,  but 
with  the  sole  desire  of  helping  to  rescue  from  obscurity  the 
glorious  military  record  "  Walker's  Division  "  earned  during 
the  late  war. 

I  hope  the  history  of  every  Texas  regiment  and  brigade  in 
the  Confederate  States  army  will  be  wTitten,  and  thus  pre- 
serve the  material  for  some  future  Bancroft  of  Texas  history. 
We  have  given  too  many  Texas  regiments  and  brigades  to  the 
late  Confederate  States  service,  to  let  their  history  sink  into 
obscurity  ;  besides,  their  bravery  and  services  are  of  such  a 
nature  as  to  cause  a  glow  of  pride  to  tingle  through  every 
Texan  heart.  As  I  have  said,  I  hope  other  pens  will  write 
the  histories  of  other  organizations.  If  I  have  but  contributed 
a  correct  record  of  Walker's  Division  to  the  general  fund,  I 
am  satisfied.  Imperfect  as  this  record  may  be,  it  is  given  to 
the  public,  not  for  criticism,  but  as  a  compilation  of  facts, 
exhibiting  some  of  the  innumerable  thrilling  scenes  through 
which  they  participated  as  votive  actors. 


12  PREFACE. 

Though  vanquished  in  the  final  result,  though  the  princi- 
ple for  which  we  fought  and  for  which  our  comrades  died 
seems  to  be  forgotten  in  the  blind  passions  of  the  hour,  yet  we 
have  the  proud  satisfaction  to  know  that  our  defeat  was 
accomplished  by  an  overwhelming  foe,  and  they  must  and 
ever  will  do  us  the  justice  to  say  that  they  "  met  a  foeman  wor- 
thy of  their  steel." 

I  shall  endeavor  to  give  a  graphic  account  of  the  organiza- 
tion of  the  16th  Texas  Yolunteer  Infantry  (Flournoy's),  the 
regiment  to  which  I  had  the  honor  of  belonging  until  it  was 
attached  to  a  brigade,  and  this  brigade  with  three  others 
were  formed  into  a  division,  the  history  of  which  division, 
from  camp  to  field,  I  have  endeavored  to  give  as  fully  as 
possible,  in  the  following  chronicle 


THE    CAMPAIGNS 


OF 


WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 


CHAPTER  I. 

THE  TEXAS   SOLDIER. 

"  Rebellion  !  foul,  dishonoring  word, 
Whose  wrongful  blight  so  oft  has  stained 
The  holiest  cause  that  tongue  or  sword — 
That  mortal  ever  lost  or  won. 
How  many  a  spirit,  born  to  bless, 
Has  sunk  beneath  that  withering  name, 
Whom  but  a  day's,  an  hour's  success 
Had  wafted  to  eternal  fame  ! " 

i'N  the  first  day  of  February,  1861,  Texas  took  sides 
with  her  sister  States.  The  time  had  come  when  all 
the  Southern  States  must  "  hang  together  "  in  one 
common  cause,  or  else  "hang  separately."  They  hung  to- 
gether, cemented  by  the  great  principle  that,  "  whenever  any 
form  of  government  becomes  destructive  of  its  ends,  it  is  the 
right  of  the  people  to  alter  or  abolish  it." 

As  the  news  of  the  capture  of  Fort  Sumter  spread  with 
the  velocity  of  the  hurricane,  it  roused  the  energies  of  the 
Southern  people  to  the  highest  tone  of  patriotism,  and  to 
deeds  of  the  most  lofty  action.  The  lawgiver  left  the  senate- 
house,  the  lawyer  the  court,  the  judge  the  bench,  the  mechanic 
his  shop,  the  husbandman  his  plough,  and  rushed  forward  to 


14  WALKEK'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 

the  seat  of  danger,  to  join  their  Southern  brethren  on  the 
"tented  field." 

The  bright  star  of  victory  led  them  onward  through  the 
dark  shades  of  war,  casting  light  and  hope  athwart  the  path 
of  the  war-worn  Texas  soldier. 

Texas  should  be  proud  of  the  noble  men  who  went  forth  for 
her,  to  battle  for  right  and  liberty.  They  have  taken  a  name 
already  famous,  and  made  it  the  most  glorious  of  the  age. 
They  have  borne  aloft  her  banner — through  toilsome  marches, 
through  times  of  starvation,  in  rags,  often  shoeless  and  coat- 
less — into  the  heart  of  danger,  and  planted  it  on  the  topmost 
pinnacle  of  fame.  The  sons  of  the  "  Lone  Star  State  "  dis- 
tinguished themselves  on  every  battle-field,  from  the  first  bat- 
tle of  Manassas  to  the  last  one  at  Palmetto  Eanch,  on  the 
Kio  Grande.  And  here  I  wish  to  note,  that  it  is  a  singular  fact 
that  the  last  battle  of  the  war  was,  though  the  contending 
parties  did  not  number  over  fifteen  hundred  men,  as  decisive 
a  victory  for  the  Confederates,  in  comparison  with  the  num- 
bers engaged,  as  the  first  battle  of  Manassas ;  but,  alas !  both 
were  unavailing  offerings  to  the  god  of  war. 

The  proud  achievements  of  the  troops  of  Texas  are  above 
all  praise.  History  furnishes  us  no  nobler  example  of  heroism 
and  constancy.  I  know  of  no  battle  where  they  have  been 
engaged,  that  they  have  not  been  chosen  to  bring  on  the  fight. 
What  battery  has  stood  the  force  of  their  resistless  charge  ? 
"What  retreat  have  they  failed  to  cover  ?  The  flower  of  the  foe 
has  been  cut  down  by  their  determined  valor.  Patient  and 
enduring  on  the  toilsome  march,  swift  and  certain  in  the  sur- 
prise, and  terrible  as  the  tempest-blast  in  the  charge,  they 
have  proven  themselves  worthy  of  the  name  of  Soldiers  of 
Liberty.  If  the  world  has  ever  known  their  superiors  in  valor, 
history  gives  not  the  example. 

Texans  are  born  soldiers ;  from  early  boyhood  they  are 
taught  the  use  of  the  rifle  and  six-shooter.  They  know  that 
much  depends  on  their  skill  in  the  use  of  arms — the  safety 
of  themselves  and  their  families  from  the  murdering  Lipau, 
or  the  ruthless  Comanche.  They  learn  in  early  childhood 


WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  15 

what  has  contributed  so  largely  to  the  fame  of  the  French 
soldier — perfect  self-reliance  at  all  times  and  under  all  cir- 
cumstances. This,  perhaps,  is  the  most  valuable  quality  a 
soldier  can  possess.  Without  it  the  most  thorough  bull-dog 
courage  often  ends  in  a  worse  than  useless  sacrifice  of  life. 
The  Texan  possesses  another  high  quality  of  a  soldier — power 
of  endurance,  and  ability  to  march  when  suffering  for  food  and 
water,  that  would  prostrate  men  not  trained  to  travel  the  im- 
mense prairies  of  Texas,  where  they  are  often  for  days  without 

either. 

•*-*#####*-*-x- 

The  gallant  dead — how  fell  they  ?  Heroes  !  thousands  of 
whom  have  no  monuments  save  the  memory  of  their  ever- 
lasting valor.  At  the  cannon's  mouth,  where  the  foe  stood 
thickest,  in  the  deadliest  charge,  with  the  forlorn  hope,  on  the 
perilous  scout,  or  at  the  first  breach — there  lay  the  Texan. 

"  The  soldier  of  liberty,  who  died  for  her  sake, 
Leaving  in  battle  not  a  blot  on  his  name, 
He  looked  proudly  to  heaven,  from  the  death-bed  of  fame." 

May  we  not  feel  confident  that  the  rising  and  coming  gen- 
erations of  Texans  will  not  attaint  the  holy  halo  that  sur- 
rounds the  name  of  the  Texan  soldier,  but,  on  the  contrary, 
try  to  emulate  the  deeds  he  has  done  and  accomplished, 
not  only  on  the  tented  field,  but  in  the  council  chamber; 
and  that,  whether  republican  institutions  on  this  American 
continent  survive  the  present  ordeal  or  not,  the  "  Lone  Star  "  of 
Texas  shall  ever  remain  the  emblem  of  those  who,  like  the 
immortal  Bayard,  are  sans  peur  et  sans  reproclie  ? 


16  WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 


CHAPTEE  II. 

THE  PRIVATE   SOLDIER. 

"And  while  adversity's  chill  blast 
Sweeps  like  a  besorn  o'er  our  land, 
And  round  her  bleeding  forms  are  cast 
The  hated  tyrant's  chains  at  last, 
We  still  possess  the  glorious  past — 
The  victories  of  our  patriot  band — 
The  memories  of  the  fields  of  glory, 
Which  aye  shall  live,  in  song  and  story, 
To  cheer  the  brave  and  shame  the  coward. 
By  that  blue  heaven  bending  o'er  us, 
By  that  green  earth  spread  out  before  us, 
By  that  dear  fame  of  those  who  bore  us, 
We  are  not  whipped,  but  overpowered." 

fortune  of  a  private  soldier  is  indeed  an  humble 
and,  I  might  almost  say,  a  penal  one.  Having  to  en- 
dure the  sun-rays  on  the  march,  the  blinding  snows 
and  chilling  winds  of  winter,  to  plunge  into  the  swollen  torrent, 
or  traverse  the  arid  plains,  nothing  can  possibly  sustain  him, 
unless  it  be  a  high  and  holy  cause,  or  a  sense  of  the  rectitude  of 
the  purpose  for  which  he  has  taken  up  arms,  and  for  which  he 
strikes.  No  glowing  vision  of  a  monument  erected  by  a 
nation,  or  even  by  his  comrades  in  arms,  can  allure  him  to  the 
dangerous  path.  Of  the  private  soldier  of  any  army,  bi.t,  above 
all,  the  private  soldier  of  the  army  whose  banners  are 
consecrated  to  the  laws  which  are  the  expression  to  us  of 
the  safeguard  of  popular  rights,  and  the  cause,  in  an  eminent 
degree,  of  civilization  and  liberty  pervading  the  soldiers  of 
the  armies  everywhere,  but  especially  the  armies  called  to- 
gether by  such  a  cause — it  may  indeed  be  said  of  them, 
as  an  eloquent  European  said  of  those  who  fell  before  the 


WALKER  S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  17 

walls  of  Buda,  the  consciousness  of  doing  right  impressed  on 
their  features,  that  "they  were  the  nameless  demigods  of 
liberty."  No  monument  rises  up  in  his  anticipations  of  the 
future  ;  he  cannot  expect  that,  when  he  returns  from  the  war, 
either  brave  hands  or  fair  hands  can  wreathe  the  bays  upon 
his  bent  or  aching  brow,  or  even  anticipate  that  he  will  be 
remembered  by  those  who  most  heartily  bade  him  leave  the 
threshold  of  his  home,  and  go  forth  and  do  his  duty  like  a 
man.  Nevertheless,  there  is  a  fame  milder,  and  perhaps 
more  sacred  than  that  which  descends  in  bounteous  pleni- 
tude upon  the  head  of  the  conspicuous  officer,  or  upon  those 
who  have  signally  distinguished  themselves  in  battle. 

Among  the  private  soldiers  of  the  late  Confederate  army 
were  men  of  culture,  men  of  gentle  training,  men  of  intellect, 
men  of  several  positions,  men  of  character  at  home,  men 
endeared  to  a  domestic  circle  of  refinement  and  eloquence, 
men  of  wealth,  men  who  gave  tone  and  character  to  the 
society  in  which  they  moved,  and  men  who,  for  conscience' 
sake,  made  a  living  sacrifice  of  property,  home,  comforts,  and 
who  were  ready  to  add  crimson  life  to  the  holy  offering.  Many 
of  these,  if  they  would  .have  surrendered  honor,  and  their  inde- 
pendence, could  have  remained  in  possession  of  all  these 
elegances  and  comforts.  But  they  felt  like  the  Roman  who 
said  :  "  Put  honor  in  one  hand  and  death  in  the  other,  and  I 
will  look  on  death  indifferently."  Without  rank,  without  title, 
without  anticipation  of  distinction — animated  only  by  the  high- 
est and  noblest  sentiments  which  can  influence  our  common 
nature — the  private  labors,  and  toils,  and  marches,  and  fights  ; 
endures  hunger,  and  thirst,  and  fatigue.  Through  watchings 
and  weariness,  sleepless  nights  and  cheerless,  laborious  days, 
he  holds  up  before  him  the  one  glorious  prize — "  Freedom  to 
my  country  ;"  "independence  and  my  home." 

I  do  not  believe  that  there  has  been  a  private  in  the  Con- 
federate army,  who  has  been  under  the  fire  of  battle,  and  has 
returned  maimed  or  in  the  freshness  of  his  vigor  to  his 
home,  who  will  not  enjoy  the  fame  with  which  the  loving 
wife,  or  venerable  mother,  or,  prouder  still,  with  which  his 


18  WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 

children  will  remember  his  deeds.  The  private  soldiers  may 
not  have  municipal  authorities  to  welcome  them,  after  their 
onerous,  tiresome,  and  exacting  duties  ;  but  with  a  love  multi- 
plied infinitely,  multiplied  by  the  dangers  they  have  encoun- 
tered, the  labors  they  have  resolutely  and  heroically  per- 
formed, by  the  sacrifice  of  health  and  limbs  that  they  have 
incurred  for  their  country,  that  has  given  them  shelter  and 
has  maintained  for  them  a  magnificent  sanctuary — for  all 
these  the  wife  of  their  choice  will  clasp  them,  as  I  am  sure 
she  has  done  before,  in  hundreds  of  instances,  still  more 
dearly  to  her  heart ;  for  all  that  she  will  still  have  a  deeper 
sanctity.  The  waving  hand  of  the  old  woman  who  nourished 
you  at  her  breast  will  impart  her  welcome  at  the  threshold, 
and  perhaps  her  farewell  benediction.  With  tears  she  may 
impart  it,  but  ah !  they  will  be  tears  glowing  with  enthusiasm 
and  with  an  old  mother's  love.  This,  I  say,  is  the  fame — the 
milder,  the  more  obscure  fame,  if  that  be  not  a  contra- 
diction of  terms — but  nevertheless,  by  reason  of  this,  the  more 
sacred  fame,  which  will  be  perpetuated  for  a  generation  or 
two,  or  more,  in  the  household  and  amongst  the  relatives  of 
the  private  soldier.  I  have  often  felt  pained  and  annoyed  at 
the  flippant  reference  to  the  private,  while  the  unreasoning 
speaker  seemed  to  regard  the  officers  as  the  prime  and 
meritorious  agents  of  all  that  is  done.  Why,  in  those  ranks 
is  an  amount  of  intellect  which  would  instruct  and  astonish 
the  statesman  !  The  opinion  of  these  men  will  be,  and  ought 
to  be,  omnipotent  with  the  people  and  government  of  their 
country.  The  admiration  of  their  devotion  and  heroism  is 
without  limit,  and  when  the  blind  passion  of  our  foes  dies 
away,  and  harmony  prevails  throughout  this  continent,  I 
hope  our  worthy  foes  will  do  us  justice  in  acknowledging 
that  the  private  soldiers  of  the  Southern  army  were  never 
whipped,  but  overpowered. 


WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 


19 


CHAPTEE  HI. 


THE  ORGANIZATION  OF  THE  16TH  TEXAS  V.  INFANTRY. — AT  CAMP  GROCE. — 
DESCRIPTION  OF  CAMP  GROCE  AND  CAMP  HEBERT.— CAMP  LIFE. — PRES- 
ENTATION OF  COLORS. — THE  DEPARTURE. — RECEPTION  AT  HOUSTON. — 
CAMP  AT  VIRGINIA  POINT. — CAMP  SCENES  AND  CAMP  AMUSEMENTS. — 
NIGHT  ALARM. — SCENES  ON  PICKET. 


I  HE  16th  Texas  Y.  Infantry  was  organized  at  "  Camp 
Groce,"  near  Hempstead,  Austin  County,  on  the  25th 
of  March,  1862,  with  the  following  Field,  Staff  and 
and  Company  officers,  viz.  : 

Colonel — GEORGE  FLOURNOY. 
Lieut.-Colonel— JAMES  E.  SHEPARD. 
Major — WILLIAM  H.  REDWOOD. 
Quartermaster — W.  H.  D.  CARRINGTON, 
Commissary — JOSEPH  LEE. 
Surgeon — U.  GK  M.  WALKER. 
Asst.-Surgeon — S.  EWING. 
Chaplain — R.  H.  TALIAFERRO. 
Adjutant — R.  L.  UPHAW. 


COMPANY  A. 
Captain,  X.  B.  Sanders. 
1st  Lieut.,  J.  M.  White. 
2d  Lieut.,  J.  F.  Estes. 
2d  Lieut.,  Sr.,  Ishmael  Kile. 
Orderly  Sergeant,  D.  A.  Chamberlin. 
75  men. 

COMPANY  B 
Captain,  W.  H.  Jerrell. 
1st  Lieut.,  A.  Testard. 
2d  Lieut.,  H.  L.  Lewis. 
3d  Lieut.,  M.  M.  Murdock. 
Orderly  Sergeant,  H.  C.  Surghuor. 
74  men. 


COMPANY  C 
Captain,  M.  H.  Bowers. 
1st  Lieut.,  Joseph  Bird. 
3d  Lieut.,  John  R.  Spann. 
2d  Lieut.,  J.  L.  Yaughn. 
Orderly  Sergeant,  B.  F.  Lockwood. 
83  men. 

COMPANY  D. 

Captain,  A.  H.  Chalmers. 
1st  Lieut.,  E.  Taylor. 
3d  Lieut.,  W.  L.  McLaughlin. 
2d  Lieut.,  John  Rumsey. 
Orderly  Sergeant,  T.  J.  McLaughlin. 
85  men. 


20 


WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 


COMPANY  E. 
Captain,  G.  T.  Marold. 
1st  Lieut.,  A.  E.  Klaedon. 
3d  Lieut.,  C.  H.  Hanke. 
3d  Lieut.,  J.  Groff. 
Orderly  Sergeant,  F.  Giesheke. 
73  men. 

COMPANY  F. 
Captain,  Z.  Hunt. 
1st  Lieut.,  Z.  W.  Matthews. 
3d  Lieut.,  B.  T.  Harris. 
3d  Lieut.,  C.  M.  Campbell. 
Orderly  Sergeant,  S.  Hayford. 
84  men. 

COMPANY  G. 
Captain,  F.  Moore. 
1st  Lieut.,  C.  F.  Millett. 
3d  Lieut.,  John  Davidson. 
3d  Lieut.,  .John  Smith. 
Orderly  Sergeant,  John  O.  Johnson. 
89  men. 


COMPANY  H. 
Captain,  M.  Quin. 
1st  Lieut.,  J.  B.  Good. 
3d  Lieut.,  J.  McDonald. 
3d  Lieut.,  J.  R  Coryell. 
Orderly  Sergeant,  I.  C.  Bell. 
51  men. 

COMPANY  I. 
Captain,  L.  Moore. 
1st  Lieut.,  A.  McDow. 
3d  Lieut.,  V.  S.  Rubb. 
3d  Lieut.,  W.  H.  Ledbetter. 
Orderly  Sergeant,  James  E.  Wilkins. 
Ill  men. 

COMPANY  K. 
Captain,  T.  I.  Peel. 

1st  Lieut., Peel. 

3d  Lieut. ,  A.  Ramer. 
3d  Lieut. ,  James  Donahoe. 
Orderly  Sergeant,  J.  M.  Bennick. 
64  men. 


Camp  Groce,  so  named  in  honor  of  Colonel  L.  "W.  Groce, 
the  owner  of  the  land,  commanded  a  splendid  panoramic 
view  of  a  long  extent  of  country,  situated  on  a  rising  ground 
alongside  of  the  Central  Railroad,  between  three  and  four 
miles  from  the  town  of  Hempstead,  in  Austin  County.  It 
was  at  first  covered  with  trees  and  dense  brush  ;  these  being 
cleared  away,  except  some  of  the  trees  left  for  shade,  a  pretty 
camp  soon  sprung  up  like  a  city.  Here  our  regiment  was 
pleasantly  encamped,  occupying  the  long  wooden  sheds  that 
were  built  for  our  barracks.  The  bright  fires  that  crackled 
and  glowed  around  gave  a  cheerful  appearance  to  the  place, 
about  which  the  men  could  be  found  grouped, — some  cooking, 
some  furbishing  up  their  arms  after  return  from  drill,  others 
pitching  quoits,  or  collected  together  listening  to  some  story- 
teller spinning  his  yarns.  What  a  scene  for  one  unaccustomed 
to  witness  a  regular  encampment !  It  was  a  spectacle  both 
strange  and  new,  to  see  young  men,  reared  amid  the  luxuries 
and  comforts  of  home,  whose  fair  faces  and  white  hands  had 


WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  21 

never  been  soiled  by  contact  with  work,  doing  soldier's  duty, 
bonding  over  the  camp-fire,  preparing  meals  or  boiling  coffee 
— tears  streaming  from  their  eyes,  caused  by  villainous  smoke 
from  those  same  camp-fires — carrying  wood  and  water,  and, 
when  the  day's  duties  were  completed,  lying  down  upon  a 
board,  with  knapsack  or  a  billet  of  wood  for  a  pillow.  Military 
discipline  soon  inducted  us  into  the  mysteries  of  camp-life, 
and  in  time  we  became  accustomed  to  its  daily  routine,  which 
was  by  no  means  light.  At  early  dawn  the  reveille  roused 
us  from  slumber.  Roll-call  being  over,  the  companies 
were  dismissed  to  put  their  quarters  in  order.  Breakfast  at 
6  o'clock,  A.  M.  In  the  mean  time  two  men  from  each  com- 
pany were  detailed  to  serve  in  the  main-guard,  to  enforce 
discipline  and  guard  the  camp.  A  police  guard  was  also 
appointed,  who  cleaned  up  all  dirt  and  filth  about  the  tents, 
brought  water  for  the  company,  wood  for  the  cooks,  and,  in 
fact,  kept  everything  in  order  and  cleanliness  during  the 
drilling  of  the  troops. 

There  was  a  daily  drill,  three  times  a  day,  at  the  following 
hours,  viz. : 

Company  Drill,  at  7  o'clock,  A.  M., 
Company  Drill,  at  2  o'clock,  P.  M., 
Battalion  Drill,  at  3J  o'clock,  P.  M., 

and  "Dress  Parade"  every  evening,  at  5  o'clock;  at  sundown, 
Company  Muster,  for  roll-call  and  supper.  Tattoo,  at  9  P.  M., 
when  the  men  retired  to  their  respective  quarters;  fifteen 
minutes  later,  three  taps  of  the  drum  was  the  signal  for  all 
lights  to  be  extinguished,  and  the  camp  was  in  darkness  and 
quietude.  These  duties  were  conducted  with  regularity  and 
precision,  and  performed  with  a  promptitude  and  cheerful- 
ness surprising  in  men  who  had  never  known  restraint,  and 
w  ere  fresh  from  the  business  and  luxuries  of  home.  Every- 
thing necessary  for  the  comfort  and  convenience  of  the  troops 
was  furnished,  and  laugh,  jest,  and  song  attested  the  general 
satisfaction  and  good  feeling  of  the  men. 

Opposite  "  Camp  Groce,"  on  the  left  of  the  railroad,  was 


22  WALKEB'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 

situated  "Camp  Hebert,"  named  after  Brigadier-General 
P.  O.  Hebert,  who  then  commanded  the  district  of  Texas, 
New  Mexico,  and  Arizona ; — here  was  encamped  Colonel  Car- 
ter's Brigade  of  Cavalry.  From  this  position  there  was  a  mag- 
nificent view  of  the  hills  that  gird  the  place,  forming  a  sort  of 
natural  amphitheatre ;  looking  picturesque  with  their  waving 
forests  of  trees,  and  innumerable  white  tents.  Look  into  the 
cavalry  officers'  tents,  and  you  will  find  that  they  don't  fare 
so  badly  in  camp.  Neat  beds  are  contrived ;  some  are  cots, 
others  saplings  or  frames  covered  with  cotton,  and  plenty  of 
coverings.  On  one  side  is  a  table,  with  books  and  novels, 
a  box  of  cigars,  and,  most  likely,  a  bottle  of  "commissary." 
These,  with  a  looking-glass,  and  the  officers'  equipments  are 
complete.  Four  flies  form  a  mess-tent;  and  as  the  colonel 
and  staff  are  going  to  dine,  we  will  just  see  what  kind  of  fare 
they  have.  It  consists  of  stewed  beef,  boiled  ham,  mashed 
potatoes,  and  a  couple  of  chickens,  which  some  of  the  Austin 
County  housekeepers  were  kind  enough  to  raise  for  them — at 
least  the  officers'  servants  thought  so ;  for  dessert,  a  couple  of 
bottles  of  old  rye,  which  some  of  the  planters  sent  them — for 
their  especial  benefit ;  all  these  flanked  by  a  respectable  force 
of  negro  waiters. 

Officers  and  orderlies  are  always  lounging  or  riding  about 
headquarters,  which  gave  it  a  very  gay  and  stirring  appear- 
ance. At  some  distance  from  the  colonel's  headquarters  are 
the  less  pretentious  headquarters  of  some  of  his  subordinate 
officers,  while,  a  little  further  on,  are  the  modest  tents  of  the 
rank  and  file,  arranged  in  streets. 

The  men  around  these  are  collected  in  groups,  wearing 
their  bell-spurs,  while  around  each  waist  is  dangling  a  huge 
knife,  made  by  some  village  blacksmith,  giving  them  the 
appearance  of  warriors,  apparently  ready  for  any  emergency. 
Some  are  playing  cards,  pitch  and  toss,  or  a  thousand  other 
games  known  only  in  the  army ;  others  are  dining,  and  grum- 
bling at  their  rations,  while  dining,  perhaps,  on  turkey.  The 
cooks  are  busy  around  a  huge  camp-kettle,  placed  on  the  fire, 
in  which  a  joint  of  bacon  and  some  peas  are  bubbling  and 


WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  23 

bubbling  around,  as  if  they  were  patriotic  enough  to  enjoy 
being  eaten  for  the  good  of  the  soldier.  A  smaller  vessel  sim- 
mers near  it ;  but,  as  the  lid  is  on  it,  I  cannot  see  its  contents 
— most  likely  a  brace  of  chickens  under  the  wing  of  a  fat  tur- 
key. This  is  the  way  the  cavalry  lived  at  "Camp  Hebert." 
You  might  ask  them  where  they  got  all  these  good  things. 
They  will  tell  you,  as  a  matter  of  course,  that  their  commis- 
sary furnished  them.  Follow  their  career  through  Arkansas 
and  Louisiana,  afterwards,  and  ask  the  ladies  of  those  States 
about  their  chickens,  when  Carter's  Cavalry  was  in  their 
neighborhood. 

Nothing  of  much  interest  transpired  at  "Camp  Groce" 
(outside  of  the  routine  of  camp  duty),  until  the  morning  of 
the  25th  of  April.  On  that  day  the  ladies  of  Austin  County 
presented  the  regiment  with  a  beautiful  "flag."  This  appro- 
priate present  was  received  with  hearty  cheers.  The  address 
of  the  lady  orator  was  one  of  peculiar  force  and  unsurpassed 
eloquence.  Her  clear  ringing  voice  was  heard  by  all,  and 
her  manner  and  words  sent  a  thrill  of  enthusiasm  to  every 
manly  bosom,  attested  by  frequent  loud  and  prolonged  bursts 
of  applause.  Colonel  George  Flournoy  accepted  the  flag 
from  the  fair  donors,  and  gave  them  assurance  that,  so  long 
as  a  member  of  the  16th  Kegiment  remained  alive,  it  should 
never  suffer  a  stain  of  dishonor.  After  the  presentation  of 
the  colors,  the  regiment  continued  learning  its  A,  B,  C,  of 
military  tactics,  until  the  16th  of  May,  when  we  bade  adieu  to 
the  old  camp,  endeared  to  many  by  pleasant  associations, 
and  friendships  formed  to  be  severed  only  by  death.  "We  em- 
barked aboard  the  railroad  cars,  bound  for  Virginia  Point, 
and  arrived  at  Houston  about  4  o'clock,  P.  M.  During  our 
march  from  the  Central  to  the  Galveston  Depot,  the  regiment 
was  the  recipient  of  one  grand  ovation,  the  balconies  of  the 
houses,  banquettes,  and  streets  being  crowded  with  countless 
thousands  of  men,  women,  and  children.  Ladies  waved 
their  handkerchiefs,  and  flung  bouquets  on  the  marching  col- 
umn, bidding  the  brave  boys  farewell.  Many  knew  that  it 
was,  perhaps,  a  last  farewell  to  the  enthusiastic  and  noble 


24  WALKEB'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 

soldiers  of  this  command,  and  they  duly  appreciated  the 
heartfelt  expression  of  sympathy  showered  upon  them,  and 
the  emotion  manifested  upon  many  fair  and  lovely  faces.  As 
the  regiment  marched  up  Main  Street,  a  gentleman  remarked : 
"  There  goes  a  body  of  men  who  will  make  their  mark  on  the 
battle-field."  After  arriving  at  the  Galveston  Depot,  and 
finding  no  train  ready  to  leave  for  Virginia  Point,  we  en- 
camped near  the  depot  until  the  following  day,  when  we  went 
on  board  tho  train  bound  for  Virginia  Point,  distant  from 
Houston  about  forty-three  miles.  We  arrived  at  Virginia 
Point  about  2  o'clock,  P.  M.  Our  quartermaster  was  on 
hand  to  convey  us  to  our  quarters,  in  a  long  row  of  wooden 
sheds,  which  had  been  previously  occupied  by  Colonel  Cook's 
Regiment  of  Artillery.  They  had  left  for  Galveston  a  few 
days  previous  to  our  arrival. 

Virginia  Point  commands  a  splendid  view  of  Galveston 
Island.  It  was  strongly  fortified.  Fort  Nelson,  at  this  place, 
had  fine  casements,  an  extensive  esplanade,  and  mounted 
several  guns  of  large  caliber.  The  situation  of  the  fort,  on  a 
jutting  neck  of  land,  was  delightful.  Here  the  troops  spent 
their  time  pleasantly  enough  (except  occasionally  annoyance 
by  musquitoes),  reclining  on  the  grass,  watching  the  numer- 
ous vessels  sailing  by;  or,  perched  along  the  railroad  bridge 
(connecting  Galveston  Island  with  the  main  land),  rod  in 
hand,  awaiting  a  nibble  from  one  of  the  finny  tribe,  or  per- 
haps watching  the  declining  sun  gilding  the  prairies  with  its 
golden  beams,  while  around  was  diffused  the  purple  haze  of 
an  Indian  summer.  Here  the  troops  were  visited  by  their 
wives  and  children  (such  as  were  fortunate  enough  to  have 
any),  and  many  a  pleasant  day  passed  over  in  sweet  for- 
getfulness  of  what  had  gone  by,  and  with  hopes  of  the 
future. 

Nothing  worthy  of  notice  transpired  in  camp  until  the 
night  of  the  10th  of  June.  Shortly  after  midnight  we  heard 
the  "long  roll"  beat.  This  we  knew  was  a  token  of  danger. 
Presently,  orderlies  came  galloping  through  camp,  notifying 
company  commanders  to  have  their  companies  on  the  parade- 


WALKEB'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  25 

ground  in  five  minutes'  time.  Doubl'e-quicking  to  the  pa- 
rade-ground, some  shoeless  and  hatless,  we  formed  in  line  of 
battle.  Presently  the  ordinance  sergeant,  assisted  by  several 
deputies,  commenced  issuing  ammunition  to  the  several  com- 
panies. About  the  time  each  company  had  their  ammunition, 
heavy  cannonading  was  heard  in  the  direction  of  Galveston. 
Many  were  the  surmises  and  conjectures  of  the  soldiers  as  to 
the  cause.  Apparently  to  keep  up  the  excitement,  one  of 
the  pickets  stationed  on  the  railroad  bridge  shouted  aloud, 
"Who  comes  there ?"  followed  by  the  report  of  a  musket. 
The  hands  of  every  man  clasped  his  gun  tighter,  and  every 
preparation  was  made  to  resist  an  attack  from  the  enemy — 
for,  in  the  hurry  and  alarm,  we  could  think  of  nothing  else — 
but,  on  making  inquiry  about  the  sentinel's  firing,  it  was  ascer- 
tained that  a  cow,  in  attempting  to  cross  the  bridge,  was  shot 
by  him.  He  reported  to  the  officer  of  the  guard  that  he  saw, 
as  he  supposed,  a  "Live  Yankee,"  creeping  slowly  towards 
him,  with  intent  to  kill  him,  and  he  fired  in  self-defence. 
His  explanation  proved  satisfactory  to  the  officer  of  the 
guard. 

Another  incident,  I  deem  worthy  to  relate,  occurred  with 
another  of  the  sentinels  on  the  bridge.  An  officer,  be- 
longing to  the  regiment,  was  returning  from  Galveston.  After 
passing  by  several  of  the  pickets  without  any  difficulty, 
he  approached  an  Irishman  (who  was  on  picket).  He  halted 
the  officer,  and  asked  him  for  the  "countersign."  The  officer 
informed  him  that  he  did  not  deem  it  necessary  to  avail  him- 
self of  getting  the  "  countersign,"  owing  to  the  fact  that  he 
had  supposed  all  the  soldiers  knew  him.  The  Irishman 
replied  that  his  instructions  were,  not  to  let  any  person  pass 
without  he  had  the  "countersign."  Moreover,  he  informed 
the  officer,  he  knew  no  person  while  on  duty ;  and,  if  Jeff. 
Davis  undertook  to  pass  without  having  the  "countersign,"  he 
would  not  allow  him  to  pass.  The  officer,  hearing  those 
remarks,  became  very  angry,  and  threatened  to  prefer 
charges  against  the  Irishman.  The  Irishman  became  indig- 
nant, and,  in  order  to  punish  the  officer  for  his  insulting 


26  WALKEE'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 

remarks,  ordered  him  to  maik  time,  at  the  same  moment 
presenting  his  bayonet  to  the  officer's  breast,  and  commencing 
to  sing 

"  I  am.  monarch  of  all  I  survey  ; 
My  right  there  is  none  to  dispute." 

After  finishing  his  song,  the  officer  asked  him  to  call  the 
officer  of  the  guard,  and  have  him  released.  He  answered 
the  officer  by  replying,  that,  if  he  wanted  the  officer  of  the 
guard,  he  could  call  him ;  but,  for  his  part,  he  had  no  use 
for  the  officer  of  the  guard.  The  officer  hearing  this,  com- 
menced calling  for  the  officer  of  the  guard.  The  officer  of 
the  guard  hearing  him,  came  and  released  the  officer  from  his 
domicile. 

Ever  afterwards,  when  the  officer  took  a  trip  to  Galveston, 
he  was  pretty  certain  to  have  the  countersign  before  he  un- 
dertook to  pass  the  bridge  pickets. 

It  is  a  matter  of  fact  that,  several  years  afterwards,  this 
same  Irishman,  while  on  picket  in  Louisiana,  gave  to  a 
colonel  of  a  cavalry  regiment  the  same  kind  of  treatment 
he  had  given  to  the  infantry  officer  at  Virginia  Point. 

After  remaining  on  the  parade-ground  about  half  an  hour, 
and  seeing  no  enemy  in  sight,  the  command  was  given : 
"Eight  face,"  then  "  Countermarch,  by  file  right,"  back  again 
to  our  old  quarters.  In  the  mean  time  we  were  assured 
that  the  "stars  and  bars"  still  floated  defiantly  over  Gal- 
veston Island. 

We  soon  learned  the  cause  of  our  being  disturbed  in  our 
midnight  slumbers.  The  cause  of  the  heavy  firing  we  heard 
was  owing  to  the  Steamer  Eusk  undertaking  to  run  the  block- 
ade, which  she  did  successfully.  She  was  loaded  with  cotton 
for  the  government,  and  her  destination  was  the  ever-faithful 
"  Island  of  Cuba."  After  the  excitement  died  away,  everything 
remained  quiet  in  camp. 

While  encamped  at  Virginia  Point,  and,  I  might  say,  during 
the  whole  period  of  time  we  remained  in  Texas,  there  was  a 
most  improvident  waste  of  beef,  the  regular  rations  being 


WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  •  27 

served  out  to  each  man.  Those  who  could  obtain  choice 
luxuries  from  home,  of  course  threw  away  the  coarse  and 
tough  parts  of  the  beef  given  them.  These,  however,  soon  found 
customers,  for  clouds  of  buzzards  were  continually  hovering  over 
and  lighting  within  the  lines,  playing  the  part  of  most  excel- 
lent scavengers. 

Could  we  but  have  anticipated  the  horrible  sufferings 
we  were  then  bringing  upon  our  heads,  or  rather  stomachs, 
by  the  prodigality — had  we  thought  the  time  was  near 
at  hand,  when  the  poorest  morsels  we  were  throwing  away 
so  lavishly  would  be  absolutely  necessary  to  sustain  life 
— a  more  provident  course  would  have  been  adopted.  Some  of 
the  old  campaigners  that  had  been  in  the  Mexican  "War 
spoke  of  this  waste  of  victuals  at  the  time,  remarking  that  the 
buzzards  were  fattening  upon  meat  of  which  we  should  all 
feel  the  want  before  the  close  of  the  war ;  which  proved,  alas ! 
too  true.  But  by  far  the  greater  portion  of  the  troops  were  in- 
experienced, and  went  on  the  principle  of  taking  special  good 
care  of  ourselves  to  day,  and  letting  to-morrow  look  out  for 
itself.  We  gained  experience  and  wisdom  afterwards,  but  we 
bought  it  at  an  enormous  price. 

Much  as  we  all  were  pleased  with  our  location  at  Yir- 
ginia  Point,  our  destiny  was  for  a  larger  field  to  operate 
in.  We  soon  learned  that  our  services  were  required  in  Arkan- 
sas, to  help  drive  back  the  invaders  from  her  soil.  General 
Hindman,  Commander-in-Chief  west  of  the  Mississippi  river, 
requested  General  Hsbert,  then  in  command  of  Texas,  to  send 
him  all  the  Texas  regiments  he  could  spare.  Conse- 
quently, on  the  1st  of  July,  Colonel  Flourney  received 
orders  from  General  Hebert,  to  hold  his  regiment  in  read- 
iness to  march  at  a  moment's  notice.  On  the  evening  of 
the  6th  of  July,  the  order  for  the  regiment  to  march  to  Little 
Rock,  Arkansas,  was  read  at  dress  parade.  The  ensuing  night 
was  accordingly  spent  in  va'rious  avocations  by  ofiicers  and 
men.  Nearly  all  wrote  home  to  their  friends  the  exciting  news, 
while  the  balance  gave  way  to  fun  and  jollification;  very 
little  sleep  was  enjoyed  by  any  one.  The  morning  of  the  7th 


28  WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 

dawned,  and  the  preparations  for  the  march  were  made ; 
blankets  were  rolled  up,  haversacks  filled  with  rations,  guns 
and  equipments  were  highly  polished  up,  awaiting  for  the 
regiment  to  form,  in  order  to  take  a  final  adieu  of  Virginia 
Point. 


WALKEB'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  29 


CHAPTEE  IV. 


MARCHING  ORDERS.— RETURN  TO  CAMP  GROCE.— STORM  IN  CAMP.— PART- 
ING SCENES. — EN  ROUTE  FOR  LITTLE  ROCK. — ON  THE  MARCH. — A 
REVIEW. — SPECIAL  ORDER. — CAMP  TEXAS. — MARCH  THROUGH  LITTLE 
ROCK. — DESCRIPTION  OP  LITTLE  ROCK. 


the  7th  of  July,  under  the  heat  of  a  scorching  sun, 
the  regiment  marched  aboard  the  railroad  cars.  After 
a  ride  of  about  five  hours,  we  arrived  in  Houston.  As 
we  marched  through  the  town,  to  the  Central  Depot,  the  same 
greeting  was  extended  to  us  by  the  ladies  as  they  had  done 
previously.  There  is  something  solemn,  yet  soul-stirring,  in 
the  solid  tramp  of  a  body  of  armed  men,  as  they  depart  for 
some  scene  of  deadly  strife,  with  ensigns  fluttering  in  the 
breeze,  and  the  strains  of  martial  music,  or  the  roll  of  the 
stirring  drum.  Shortly  after  our  arrival  at  the  depot,  we  went 
aboard  the  cars,  bound  for  our  old  camp-ground,  viz.,  Camp 
Groce,  where  we  were  to  remain  a  few  days,  to  make  the 
necessary  preparations  for  the  forthcoming  long  and  tedious 
march  to  Little  Eock. 

Nothing  unusual  transpired  on  our  trip  from  Virginia 
Point,  worthy  of  notice.  On  our  arrival  at  Camp  Groce,  we 
were  much  surprised  to  find  Colonel  Elmore's  Eegiment  of  In- 
fantry occupying  our  old  barracks ;  consequently,  we  had  to 
take  possession  of  Camp  Hebert,  then  vacated  by  Carter's 
Brigade  of  Calvalry.  We  remained  at  this  camp  several  weeks, 
for  the  purpose  of  making  tents,  and  making  preparations  for 
our  journey  to  Arkansas.  The  morning  after  our  arrival  in 
camp,  our  quarters  were  visited  by  one  of  those  terrific  storms 
so  prevalent  during  this  season  of  the  year,  and  which  the 
open  nature  of  the  country  rendered  all  the  more  furious  in 
its  force  and  grandeur.  About  nine  o'clock,  huge  masses  of 


30  WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 

clouds,  inked  in  their  darkness,  gathered  in  the  northwest  in 
fantastic  forms ;  they  were  piled  up  like  a  succession  of  jagged 
mountain  peaks,  their  rough  edges  tinged  with  a  pale  yellowish 
light.  How  a  vivid  flash  of  lighting  would  dart  its  forked 
tongues,  athwart  the  blackness,  followed  by  the  rumbling 
thunder-roll !  The  storm  drove  down  with  furious  speed  upon 
our  encampment.  The  men  hurried  hither  and  thither,  driv- 
ing down  the  tent-pegs,  and  tightening  the  cords.  From  ex- 
perience, they  knew  what  to  expect.  It  burst  at  last  upon  the 
camp  with  tenfold  fury.  The  lightning's  blinding  flash  was 
followed  by  the  thunder's  peal,  crash  upon  crash,  in  rapid 
succession.  The  trees  groaned  and  shivered  with  the  wind- 
king's  mighty  power.  Then  came  the  rain,  first  in  large 
pattering  drops,  succeeded  finally  by  a  deluge  of  water,  as  if 
all  the  flood-gates  of  heaven  had  been  loosed.  Cries,  shouts, 
and  laughter  were  heard  on  all  sides,  according  to  the  nature 
of  the  men's  mishaps ;  tents  tumbled  upon  their  occupants, 
from  beneath  which  the  men  would  emerge  like  drowned  rats, 
much  to  the  amusement  of  their  more  fortunate  comrades. 
Such  scenes  as  these  were  of  no  rare  occurrence  and  formed  a 
part  of  the  soldier's  experience  at  Camp  Hebert. 

Many  of  the  troops  hacT  become  impatient  at  the  delay,  as 
the  regiment  had  to  remain  at  this  camp  until  the  31st  of  July. 
Previous  to  our  taking  up  the  line  of  march,  the  regiment  was 
inspected  by  Colonel  George  Flournoy.  A  neat  and  appro- 
priate address  was  delivered  by  him.  About  2  o'clock,  P.  M., 
we  went  aboard  the  train,  bound  for  Navasato,  our  wagon  train 
having  been  sent  ahead  of  us  the  day  previous.  On  our  arri- 
val at  Hempstead,  the  platform  was  filled  to  its  utmost  capacity 
with  citizens  of  both  sexes,  from  different  portions  of  the  State. 
The  scene  that  ensued  beggars  all  description.  Language 
grows  weak  and  impotent  in  the  attempt  to  portray  these 
early  parting  scenes  of  the  war.  The  warm  embrace,  the 
streaming  eyes,  agonizing  expressions  of  sorrow,  loving 
words  of  cheer  and  advice,  the  whispered  prayers  for  their 
loved  ones'  safety,  the  tokens  of  love  and  remembrance,  are 
memories  as  ineffaceable  as  the  foot-prints  of  time.  Kegard- 


WALKEB'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  31 

less,  in  the  abandonment  of  the  excitement  and  deep  feelings 
of  the  moment,  the  members  of  the  different  companies  kissed 
and  embraced  their  sweethearts  indiscriminately.  Those 
soft,  encircling  arms,  and  the  warm  pressure  of  loving  lips, 
linger  with  the  soldier  to  his  dying  hour,  and  often  come 
back,  with  irrepressible  influence,  to  the  hearts  of  those  who 
survive  the  dread  carnage  of  battling  hosts. 

Fair  countrywomen!  'twas  but  the  expression  of  your 
woman's  sympathy,  deep  affection,  and  abiding  hope  in  the 
cause  which  your  loved  ones  had  espoused.  Many  of  those 
warmly-throbbing  hearts  now  mouldering  lie  'neath  the  green 
sod  of  distant  States,  in  the  soldier's  humble  grave ;  but  the 
survivors  cherish  the  memory  of  those  bygone  scenes  with 
deep  reverence  and  holy  affection. 

At  the  expiration  of  the  given  time,  the  men  promptly 
returned  to  the  cars.  Cheer  after  cheer  was  given  to  the  ladies 
of  Hempstead,  as  we  took  our  departure  for  Navasoto. 

On  our  arrival  at  Navasoto,  scenes  similar  to  those  at  Hemp- 
stead  took  place,  wherever  the  regiment  had  friends  and  rela- 
tions, while  every  farm,  hamlet,  city,  and  village,  poured  forth 
their  inhabitants  at  the  roadside  to  wave  an  adieu  to  the 
men.  Such  enthuasism,  unanimity  of  sentiment  and  feeling 
was  never  before  exhibited. 

As  we  marched  through  the  town  to  our  camp-ground, 
bouquets  of  flowers  were  continually  lavished  upon  us  by  the 
fair  donors  of  Navasoto.  We  encamped  in  the  rear  of  the  town, 
and  had  dress-parade,  in  order  to  please  the  ladies  of  Nava- 
soto. We  remained  here  until  the  morning  of  the  2d  of  August, 
awaiting  the  arrival  of  our  wagons,  from  Camp  Groce. 

Aug.  2d.  Early  this  morning,  the  regiment  took  up  their  line 
of  march  for  Little  Kock,  Arkansas.  During  the  march,  the 
troops  were  compelled  to  carry  their  knapsacks,  in  order  to 
break  them  in  to  the  harness  of  old  veteran  soldiers.  After 
inarching  five  miles,  we  struck  camp,  selected  for  us  by  our 
quartermaster. 

Aug.  3d.  At  two  o'clock  this  morning,  the  reveille  aroused  the 
men  from  their  slumbers.  After  cooking  breakfast,  we  took 


32  WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 

up  the  line  of  march  once  more.  What  a  day  of  severe 
experience  it  was  for  all  who  participated  therein  !  Shoulders 
grew  sore  under  the  burden  of  supporting  knapsacks,  limbs 
wearied  from  the  painful  march,  and  feet  grew  swollen  and 
blistered  as  the  men  marched  along  the  dusty  road.  The 
country  we  marched  over  was  rocky,  especially  around  the 
town  of  Anderson.  The  troops,  however,  soon  became  accus- 
tomed to  marching,  and  bore  its  hardships  with  fortitude  and 
courage,  keeping  up  their  spirits  with  songs  and  jokes,  as  they 
passed  along.  After  marching  twelve  miles,  we  arrived  at  a 
small  creek,  and  reposed  on  its  banks  for  the  night. 

Aug.  4th.  Marched  ten  miles.  Passed  by  several  well-culti- 
vated farms,  with 

"  Dress- waving  fields  and  pastures  green, 
With  gentle  groves,  and  slopes  between.  " 

Aug.  5th.  Marched  five  miles,  and  camped  on  Bead-Eye 
creek.  The  country  here  was  beautiful,  being  an  open,  rolling 
prairie  land,  extending  as  far  as  the  eye  could  reach,  in  gentle 
undulations.  In  former  ages  this  section  of  country  was  inhab- 
ited by  a  tribe  of  Indians  called  the  Bead-Bye  tribe ;  conse- 
quently the  creek  derived  its  name  from  the  tribe  of  Indians. 
Tired  and  weary  as  the  troops  were,  they  had  little  spirit 
to  examine  the  beauties  of  nature.  We  remained  encamped  at 
this  creek  until  the  morning  of  the  8th.  In  the  mean  time,  our 
camps  were  continually  visited  by  fair  ladies  from  the  sur- 
rounding neighborhood.  Many  were  the  bright  smiles  on  their 
fair  faces,  and  also  loving  glances  from  their  bright  eyes.  Aye, 
and  cheering  words  from  their  fair  lips,  to  the  brave  defenders 
of  their  firesides,  were  conclusively  bestowed  on  the  brave 
soldiers,  showing  how  beauty  appreciated  valor.  On  the 
morning  of  the  8th,  the  march  was  once  more  resumed,  much 
to  the  satisfaction  of  the  men.  Soldiers  are  proverbial  for 
their  restlessness,  and,  strange  as  it  may  seem,  infinitely  pre- 
fer the  tedious  and  toilsome  march  to  the  quietude  of  camp 
life  for  any  length  of  time.  Arrived  at  the  town  of  Madison- 
ville,  and  marched  by  platoons  through  the  town,  to  the  tune  of 


WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  33 

Dixie.  The  town  was  thronged  with  ladies  from  the  surround- 
ing country,  eager  to  look  at  the  soldiers  and  hear  the  music 
of  the  band. 

This  town  is  built  on  a  sand-hill,  which  makes  it  look  deso- 
late and  bleak.  After  passing  the  town,  we  marched  two 
miles,  and  camped  on  the  bank  of  a  small  running  stream, 
marching  the  distance  of  ten  miles. 

Aug.  9th.  Marched  eight  miles.  Crossed  the  Trinity  river 
at  Bobbins'  Ferry,  and  camped  on  its  banks  until  the  morning 
of  the  llth  inst.  While  resting  here,  the  troops  enjoyed  them- 
selves by  bathing  their  sore  and  wearied  limbs. 

The  morning  of  the  llth  dawned  a  bright  and  beautiful  one  ; 
a  lovely  harbinger  of  those  dreamy  days  when  the  soul 
drinks  in  with  intoxicating  pleasure  every  scene  of  beauty. 
At  daylight  the  troops  were  in  line,  ready  for  the  march. 
Marched  eighteen  miles,  and  arrived  at  Colonel  Bennet's  old 
camp-ground.  It  is  situated  west  of  the  town  of  Crockett. 

Aug.  12th.  Marched  twelve  miles,  over  a  dusty  road,  and 
through  a  section  of  country  almost  devoid  of  water. 

Aug.  13th.  Marched  ten  miles,  over  a  deep  sandy  road.  The 
heat  was  suffocating,  the  thermometer  stood  at  110°,  and  the 
breeze  was  as  refreshing  as  steam  from  an  escape-pipe. 

Aug.  14th.  Marched  eight  miles,  and  camped  at  a  tan-yard. 
This  may  look  like  slow  travelling,  but  it  is  accomplishing  a 
great  deal  when  we  take  into  consideration  the  effect  of  the 
sun,  the  heat  being  terrible.  The  nights  were  somewhat  pleas- 
ant, but  the  days  perfectly  awful  with  their  suffocating  atmos- 
phere. If  you  wish  to  imagine  yourself  in  this  country,  just 
get  into  a  hot  oven,  and  if  there  be  any  difference,  it  will  be  in 
favor  of  the  oven. 

Aug.  15th.  At  daylight  this  morning,  we  took  up  the  line  of 
march.  Passed  through  the  town  of  Palestine,  and  camped 
two  miles  east  of  the  town,  after  marching  eight  miles.  The 
crops  in  this  section  of  country  apparently  were  good;  the 
farmers  seemed  highly  pleased  with  the  prospect  before  them  ; 
peaches  were  in  abundance — delicacies  which  the  men  made 
the  most  of,  and  greatly  enjoyed.  Palestine  is  situated  on. 
3 


34  WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 

rolling  hills,  and  distinguished  for  no  particular  beauty,  either 
of  location  or  building. 

Aug.  16th.  Marched  fourteen  miles.  The  day,  as  usual,  was 
sultry  and  warm.  We  camped  near  a  spring  of  cool  water, 
which  proved  to  be  refreshing.  It  was  the  first  water  we  had 
met  on  our  day's  march. 

Aug.  17th.  Marched  nine  miles,  and  camped  on  the  banks  of 
the  Angelina  river,  where  we  remained  until  the  morning  of 
the  20th  inst.  While  encamped  here,  the  troops  enjoyed 
themselves  in  swimming. 

Aug.  20th.  Crossed  the  Angelina  river,  and  marched  fourteen 
miles.  The  general  appearance  of  the  country,  after  cross- 
ing the  river,  was  hilly,  interspersed  with  rich  valleys  of  great 
fertility,  covered  with  a  dark  mulatto  soil. 

Aug.  21st.  Marched  two  miles,  and  encamped  near  the  town 
of  Tyler.  We  remained  at  this  camp  until  the  morning  of  the 
23d  inst.  On  the  evening  of  the  22d,  there  was  a  review  of 
the  regiment  by  General  H.  E.  McCulloch  and  staff.  The 
affair  was  grand  and  imposing,  and  attracted  an  immense  con- 
course of  people.  Although  there  were  present  no  "  knights 
of  the  quill,"  to  write  about  the  manly  appearance  and  mili- 
tary bearing  of  the  men,  the  general  seemed  very  much 
pleased  with  their  discipline  and  cleanliness.  After  the  re- 
view, he  made  a  patriotic  speech  to  the  troops. 

Aug.  23.  About  7  o'clock,  A.  M.,  we  took  up  the  line  of  march 
again.  Marched  through  Tyler,  to  the  tune  of  Dixie.  The  morn- 
ing was  clear  and  beautiful.  The  gorgeous  sunrise,  viewed  from 
the  hills,  the  evidence  of  divine  handiwork  bursting  upon  us 
at  every  step,  swelled  our  hearts  with  unutterable  emotions. 
As  we  proceeded  on  our  journey,  climbing  hill  after  hill,  the 
men  would  stop  and  gaze,  as  they  arrived  on  the  summit  of  the 
various  hills,  apparently  with  breathless  admiration  upon 
the  grandeur  of  the  scenery.  We  bivouacked  about  11 
o'clock,  at  a  spring  in  the  ,piny  woods,  after  marching  nine 
miles. 

Aug.  24th.  Marched  nine  miles.  The  march  to-day  was  very 
tiresome,  up  and  down  hill.  The  day  was  warm,  almost  to 


WALKEE'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  35 

suffocation.  We  halted  for  about  fifteen  minutes  in  every 
hour  to  rest. 

Aug.  25th.  Crossed  the  Sabine  river.  It  was  so  shallow  that 
the  men  were  able  to  wade  through  the  water,  which  was 
very  transparent  and  intensely  cold.  After  crossing  the  river, 
our  road  was  up  the  river  for  a  few  miles,  when  it  turned 
into  the  hills,  where  we  had  a  beautiful  view  of  the  adjacent 
scenery.  We  encamped  at  a  running  creek,  after  marching 
fifteen  miles. 

Aug.  26th.  Marched  nine  miles.  This  day's  march  brought 
us  over  a  very  hilly  country.  Our  encampment  was  very  well 
selected,  being  at  the  base  of  a  range  of  hills,  where  wood  and 
water  were  abundant. 

Aug.  27th.  Marched  fourteen  miles,  and  camped  near  the 
town  of  Gilmer.  This  was  one  of  the  severest  day's  marches 
we  experienced.  It  was  excessively  warm,  without  the  least  air. 
The  hills  on  each  side  seemed,  as  it  were,  to  reflect  the  rays  of 
the  sun  so  as  to  strike  us  with  double  force,  until  it  became 
almost  insupportable. 

Aug.  28th.  Passed  through  the  town  of  Gilmer,  in  Upshur 
County.  Gilmer,  apparently,  looks  rather  the  worse  for  wear. 
It  is  built  on  a  sandy  soil,  and  as  we  marched  through  the 
town,  the  sand  would  rise  around  us  in  perfect  clouds.  We 
marched  ten  miles  through  a  thickly-timbered  country. 

Aug.  29th.  Marched  thirteen  miles,  and  camped  near  the 
town  of  Dangerfield,  where  we  rested  until  the  first  of  Sep- 
tember. The  men  spent  their  time  principally  in  washing 
their  clothes. 

On  the  1st  of  September  we  were  ou  the  march  again. 
Passed  through  the  village  of  Dangerfield,  noted  for  the  rocky 
and  hilly  country  around  it.  You  could  discover  the  iron  ore 
on  several  hills,  and  I  have  no  doubt  but  there  is  iron  enough 
in  these  ridges  or  hills  to  meet  all  the  wants  of  the  State,  if 
properly  worked.  We  camped  in  a  valley  between  two  high 
hills.  The  distance  we  traveled  to-day  was  seven  miles. 

Sept.  2d.  Marched  twelve  miles  over  a  rocky  and  moun- 
tainous country. 


36  WALKEB'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 

Sept.  3d.  Marched  ten  miles  ;  in  two  days'  march  we  crossed 
many  gorges,  or  deep  ravines,  that  were  very  much  broken 
and  very  difficult  to  travel  over. 

Sept.  4th.  Marched  twelve  miles  ;  crossed  the  Sulphur  Fork 
River  and  encamped  on  its  banks :  the  width  of  the  river 
where  we  crossed  it  did  not  exceed  fifteen  feet. 

Sept.  5th.  Marched  seventeen  miles.  The  section  of  country 
we  traveled  over  to-day,  apparently  was  very  fertile ;  corn, 
wheat,  oats,  and  rye  matured  well. 

Sept.  6th.  Marched  ten  miles;  crossed  the  State  line, 
dividing  Texas  from  Arkansas.  The  only  difference  by  which 
we  recognized  that  we  were  in  Arkansas  was  a  sign-board 
with  the  learned  inscription,  "  Ark-Saw."  The  schoolmaster 
had  likely  been  lately  abroad  when  this  was  written.  After 
crossing  the  imaginary  line,  three  hearty  cheers  were  given 
for  Texas.  We  passed  through  a  little  village  named  Eondo. 
Near  this  place  we  encamped  alongside  of  the  camp  of  Water- 
house  Eegiment  for  the  night.  They  did  us  the  honor  of 
presenting  arms  as  we  passed  their  camp. 

Sept.  7th.  Early  next  morning  we  bade  adieu  to  Waterhouse 
Eegiment  and  proceeded  on  the  march.  Marched  thirteen 
miles  and  encamped  on  the  bed  of  Eed  Eiver,  nearly  oppo- 
site the  town  of  Fulton.  It  was  cloudy  through  the  day  and 
drizzled  a  little ;  during  the  night  it  rained  hard.  At  ten 
o'clock  no  biped  walks  outside  the  tents,  save  sentinels 
marching  the  lonesome  rounds  through  wet  and  dark- 
ness. 

Sept.  8th.  Crossed  Eed  Eiver  .on  a  ferry-boat  drawn  by 
oxen;  the  teamsters  had  considerable  difficulty  in  getting 
their  wagons  up  the  high  bluff  at  Fulton.  It  continued  driz- 
zling rain,  making  our  marching  laborious  through  the  stiff 
clay.  We  arrived  in  camp  late  in  the  evening,  after  march- 
ing twelve  miles.  After  our  arrival  in  camp  the  following 
order  was  read  to  us  on  "  dress-parade  "  : 


WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  37 

Head- Quarters,  Trans- Mississippi  Department, 
LITTLE  BOCK,  ARKANSAS, 

Sept.  6th,  1862. 

SPECIAL  ORDER,  No.  19. 

Brigadier-General  Henry  E.  McCulloch  having  reported  to 
these  head-quarters,  is  hereby  assigned  to  the  command  of 
the  Division  composed  of  Colonels  Randall  and  Clarke's 
Brigades.  He  will,  immediately  on  assuming  command  of 
the  Division,  report  to  these  head-quarters  the  true  rank  of 
each  of  the  field-officers  of  the  several  regiments  of  his  Divi- 
sion, lately  arrived  from  Texas. 

By  command  of  Major-General  HOLMES. 

On  the  morning  of  September  9th  we  passed  through  the 
town  of  Washington,  a  pleasant- looking  town,  having  a  popu- 
lation of  about  three  thousand  inhabitants.  It  is  situated  in 
the  midst  of  a  fine  farming-country.  Some  of  its  residences 
are  very  fine,  principally  built  of  brick.  Delightful  gardens, 
tasteful  lawns,  and  spacious  streets,  give  the  whole  place  an 
air  of  comfort  and  elegance.  We  encamped  about  a  mile 
north  of  the  town,  where  we  remained  until  the  morning  of 
the  13th,  when  we  took  up  the  line  of  march,  traveling 
through  a  beautiful  section  of  country.  In  fact,  I  might 
term  it  a  perfect  garden,  and  though  not  literally  teeming 
with  milk  and  honey,  it  was  teeming  with  something  better 
— farm-yards,  well  stocked  with  hogs  and  poultry,  stacks  of 
corn-fodder,  corn-houses  and  bins  filled  with  corn  and  grain  ; 
and  sweet  potatoes  seemed  to  grow  spontaneously.  We 
arrived  in  camp  early  in  the  day,  after  marching  ten  miles. 

On  the  morning  of  the  14th  we  waded  the  Little  Missouri 
River,  and  marched  sixteen  miles. 

Sept.  15th.  Marched  sixteen  miles;  passed  through  the 
village  of  Okolona,  noted  for  having  a  ten-pin  alley  and  black- 
smith's shop. 

Sept.  16th.  Marched  twelve  miles  ;  passed  through  the 
town  of  Arkadelphia,  the  band  playing  the  "Bonny  Blue 


38  WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 

Flag."  Crossed  the  Washita  River,  two  miles  below  town, 
and  encamped  on  its  banks. 

Sept.  17th.  Marched  twelve  miles  up  the  river  bank. 

Sept.  18th.  Marched  twelve  miles  and  camped  at  the  vil- 
lage of  Rockdale.  This  place  is  provided  with  a  hotel,  gro- 
cery store,  and  blacksmith's  shop. 

Sept.  19th.  Marched  twelve  miles  over  a  rocky  road,  desti- 
tute of  water. 

Sept.  20th.  Marched  nine  miles  and  encamped  on  the 
right  bank  of  the  Saline  River,  about  two  miles  from  the 
town  of  Benton.  The  river  at  this  point  looks  more  like  a 
creek  than  a  river.  We  remained  at  this  point  until  the 
morning  of  the  22d,  for  the  purpose  of  washing  our  clothes, 
in  order  to  be  clean  and  neat  in  dress  previous  to  entering 
Little  Rock. 

Sept.  22d.  Early  this  morning  we  passed  through  the  town 
of  Benton,  and  continued  our  march  until  we  arrived  in  sight 
of  the  spires  of  Little  Rock,  about  four  miles  distant.  All 
of  a  sudden  the  regiment  made  a  flank  movement,  from  the 
road  into  the  woods  on  the  right  of  the  road.  After  march- 
ing through  the  woods  for  about  a  mile,  we  arrived  at  an  old 
camp-ground,  known  by  the  name  of  "  Camp  Texas,"  where 
all  Texas  troops  had  to  go  through  the  etiquette  of  military 
tactics,  previous  to  paying  their  respects  to  the  "  Grand 
Mogul"  of  the  Trans-Mississippi  Department,  namely,  Gen- 
eral Holmes. 

Sept.  23d.  About  eight  o'clock  this  morning  we  took  up 
the  line  of  march  for  Little  Rock ;  about  half-past  nine  we 
arrived  in  the  suburbs  of  the  city ;  stacked  arms  and  rested 
about  half  an  hour  to  make  preparation  for  the  grand  tri- 
umphal march  through  the  city.  As  we  marched  through 
the  city  we  did  full  justice  to  "  Hardee's  Tactics."  As  we 
passed  the  State  House,  General  Holmes  and  the  Governor 
of  the  State,  and  their  respective  staff-officers,  took  their 
position  on  the  steps  of  the  State  House  to  witness  our 
marchings.  The  regimental  flag  was  dipped  through  respect 
for  them.  The  men  were  in  fine  spirits,  and  marched  through 


WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  39 

the  streets  of  Little  Eock  with  a  firm  and  regular  step.  They 
attracted  universal  attention  and  received  a  perfect  ovation, 
the  streets  being  crowded  with  men  and  fine  ladies,  who 
greeted  them  most  enthusiastically.  There  was  the  flutter- 
ing of  innumerable  handkerchiefs,  and  showers  of  bouquets 
greeted  us  on  our  march.  In  passing  through  the  city  we 
observed  officers  of  all  grades  loitering  about  the  city.  There 
seemed  to  be  no  scarcity  of  gold  lace  and  brass  buttons.  If 
they  had  been  organized  into  a  corps,  they  were  so  numerous 
that  they  would  be  able  to  defend  the  city  against  any  force 
that  the  enemy  might  bring  to  bear  against  it,  provided  they 
remained,  without  the  assistance  of  the  private  soldiers. 

After  marching  through  the  principal  streets  of  the  city  we 
took  the  road  leading  to  St.  John's  College,  distant  from  town 
about  two  miles ;  the  college  was  used  as  a  hospital.  We 
camped  near  the  college.  On  the  following  day  all  of  our 
wagons,  with  the  exception  of  six,  were  taken  from  us ;  shortly 
afterwards  our  transportation  was  reduced  down  to  one  wagon 
for  the  regiment.  All  surplus  baggage  was  sent  to  Little 
Eock  for  safe  keeping,  never  to  be  returned. 

The  city  of  Little  Eock  is  built  on  the  banks  of  the  Arkan- 
sas Eiver.  It  is  the  capital  of  the  State  of  Arkansas.  The 
country  surrounding  it  is  rich  and  productive.  At  the  com- 
mencement of  the  war  it  had  a  population  of  11,000  inhabit- 
ants. It  is  adorned  with  many  fine  buildings  ;  among  the  most 
noted  are  the  State  House,  Arsenal,  Penitentiary,  St.  John's 
College,  and  Gas-works.  It  is  famed  likewise  for  its  beauti- 
ful churches ;  also  for  its  magnificent  private  residences,  with 
their  lovely  flower-gardens,  which  savored  of  Oriental  ease 
and  luxury.  It  is  hard  to  conceive  a  city  more  beautifully 
situated  or  more  gorgeously  embellished,  with  splendidly 
shaded  walks  and  drives,  with  flowers,  shrubberies,  and  plan- 
tations. Most  of  its  stores  and  public  buildings  were  of  brick, 
while  most  of  the  private  residences  were  framed,  neatly 
painted,  with  piazzas  hanging  with  plants  and  creepers.  A 
spell  of  ease  and  voluptuous  luxury  seemed  to  pervade  the 
place.  The  river  is  navigable  at  all  seasons  of  the  year. 


40  WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 


CHAPTEE  Y. 


MARCH  FROM  LITTLE  ROCK  TO  CLARENDON  HEIGHTS. — CROSSING  GRAND 
PRAIRIE. — CAMP  AT  CLARENDON  HEIGHTS. — EN  ROUTE  FOR  CAMP  NEL- 
SON.— RE-CROSSING  GRAND  PRAIRIE. — SUFFERING  OF  THE  TROOPS. — 
ARRIVAL  AT  CAMP  NELSON. — ORGANIZATION  OF  THE  DIVISION. — NAMES 
OF  THE  OFFICERS. — DEPARTURE  OF  DESHLER'S  BRIGADE. — SICKNESS  IN 
CAMP. —GENERAL  REVIEW. — NIGHT  ALARM. 


N  the  morning  of  September  25th,  we  took  up  the 
line  of  march  for  White  Biver.  We  crossed 
the  Arkansas  Biver  at  Little  Eock,  on  a  pontoon 
bridge ;  after  marching  fifteen  miles  we  arrived  at  our  camp- 
ground. 

Sept.  26th.  Marched  fifteen  miles,  and  camped  near  the  town 
of  Brownsville.  Near  this  place  were  encamped  a  great  many 
Texas  troops,  both  cavalry  and  infantry;  the  former  com- 
manded by  Brigadier-General  H.  E.  McCulloch,  and  the  latter 
by  Brigadier-General  Nelson.  We  remained  encamped  at 
this  place  until  the  2d  day  of  October,  when  we  took  up  our 
line  of  march  for  Clarendon  Heights,  on  White  Eiver.  The 
cavalry  and  infantry  commanded  by  Generals  McCulloch 
and  Nelson  were  ordered  to  report  to  General  Hindman,  at 
Duval's  Bluff.  The  infantry  command  was  afterwards  ordered 
to  report  to  General  Eoune,  at  Clarendon  Heights.  After 
marching  twelve  miles,  we  arrived  in  camp.  Shortly  after 
our  arrival  it  commenced  pouring  down  rain. 

Qct.  3d.  Still  raining.  It  looks  as  if  the  windows  of  heaven 
had  opened  abruptly ;  the  rain  descends  like  a  deluge.  After 
marching  twelve  miles,  thr6ugh  mud  and  water,  over  Grand 
Prairie,  we  arrived  at  camp.  Our  wagons  failed  to  arrive 
until  late  in  the  evening.  When  they  arrived,  commenced  the 
great  strife  of  tent-pitching,  or  rather,  blanket-stretching,  in 


WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  41 

an  overflowed  prairie ;  deep  floundering  of  mules  and  com- 
missary wagons ;  swift  going  to  and  fro  of  quartermaster  ser- 
geants ;  terrible  objurgations  of  truculent  teamsters ;  curses 
not  low  of  company  caterers,  over  drenched  "  corn  bread " 
and  ruined  rations,  with  no  fires  to  cook  them  withal.  But 
at  last  night-shadows  fall ;  "  tattoo"  is  beaten,  and  somnolent 
"  taps "  resolve  our  motley  crowd  under  our  blankets,  sup- 
perless. 

Oct.  4th.  Sunrise,  or  rather  the  hour  for  sunrise,  sees  us 
stirring,  seeking  a  more  eligible  site  for  another  camp.  Here 
we  are,  all  afloat  in  Grand  Prairie,  and  likely  to  remain  so  if 
these  pluvial  skies  continue  over  us.  Casting  your  eye  across 
the  prairie,  you  behold  the  flags  of  the  different  regiments 
and  battalions  of  Texas.  Ploughing  through  the  mud  and 
water  knee-deep,  advancing  towards  us,  some  few  miles  in 
our  rear  was  Churchill's  Division,  composed  of  one  brigade 
of  Arkansians,  and  one  brigade  of  Texans,  trying  their  mus- 
cular strength  as  to  which  would  get  to  Clarendon  Heights  first. 
After  marching  twelve  miles  we  arrived  in  camp,  near  Clar- 
endon Heights,  where  we  remained  until  the  9th  inst.  After 
all  the  troops  had  arrived,  there  was  a  temporary  organiza- 
tion of  an  army  corps.  The  entire  number  of  our  forces  at 
this  point  amounted  to  about  25,000  troops,  of  all  arms.  For 
what  purpose  they  were  concentrated  here  I  am  unable  to 
explain ;  I  doubt  if  any  officer  beside  the  general  command- 
ing the  Trans-Mississippi  Department  knew.  Several  rumors 
were  afloat  about  the  advance  of  the  enemy ;  but,  with  the 
exception  of  some  of  Colonel  Parson's  Cavalry  stampeding 
and  giving  a  false  alarm,  there  was  no  enemy  nearer  to  us 
than  the  garrison  at  Helena,  on  the  Mississippi  River,  some 
fifty  miles  distant.  At  Clarendon  Heights  were  assembled 
the  bone  and  sinew  of  Texas  and  Arkansas,  all  dressed  in 
their  home-spun  suits.  Alas!  but  few  of  that  gallant  band 
are  now  left  to  tell  their  sufferings  in  crossing  and  re-crossing 
Grand  Prairie.  Our  camp  at  Clarendon  Heights  was  situated 
in  a  deep  wood  of  lofty  pines,  which,  being  stripped  of  their 
foliage,  afforded  little  shelter,  while  the  ground  was  satu- 


42  WALKEE'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 

rated  and  muddy  from  rain.  The  troops  not  being  allowed 
any  tents  to  protect  them  from  the  wintry  blast,  officers  and 
men  had  to  sleep  beside  the  camp-fires,  and  cover  them- 
selves with  their  blankets  the  best  they  could.  To  add  to 
our  misery,  General  Holmes  ordered  fortifications  to  be  built. 
A  detail  of  fifty  men  from  a  regiment  was  every  day  employ- 
ed. The  rainy  weather  having  set  in  they  were  prevented  from 
making  much  headway.  Occasionally  the  "long  roll"  would 
beat,  as  it  were  to  excite  the  minds  of  the  troops  for  battle ;  then 
again,  a  reckless  cavalryman  would  ride  through  our  camp, 
informing  us  that  the  enemy  were  landing  from  their  trans- 
ports. Rumors  about  the  enemy  were  continually  spread- 
ing throughout  the  camps.  Many  of  our  troops  were 
armed  with  the  old  flint-lock  guns,  with  a  buckskin  pouch, 
resembling  the  backwoods  hunter.  The  fever  and  ague, 
having  broken  out  amongst  the  troops,  spread  to  an  alarm- 
ing extent;  more  than  half  of  the  Division  was  confined 
with  them,  and  amongst  the  members  of  several  regiments 
there  was  not  a  sufficiency  of  men  well  enough  to  do  guard 
duty. 

On  the  morning  of  the  9th  we  took  up  the  line  of  march 
back  towards  Little  Eock.  It  was  currently  reported  in 
camp,  that  the  enemy  was  about  to  play  a  " coup  de  main" 
by  coming  up  the  Arkansas  Eiver,  thereby  cutting  off  our 
communication  with  Little  Kock.  General  Churchill's  Brig- 
ade of  Arkansians,  and  Garland's  Brigade  of  Texans,  were 
ordered  to  the  Arkansas  post.  After  marching  seventeen 
miles  we  arrived  in  camp,  late  in  the  evening.  During  the 
night  a  heavy  hail-storm  occurred. 

Oct.  10th  will  be  long  remembered  by  the  members  of  the 
Division  that  participated  in  the  march  re-crossing  Grand 
Prairie.  It  rained,  sleeted,  and  froze.  The  bleak  north 
wind  swept  over  the  prairie,  and  struck,  with  benumbing  force, 
our  thin  and  straggling  lines.  Men  lost  the  step,  and,  swerv- 
ing from  the  line,  dropped  by  the  wayside,  to  rest  on  the  few 
mounds  in  the  prairie  that  were  not  covered  with  water. 
Completely  chilled  through — even  their  senses  were  be- 


WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  43 

numbed — they  would  beg  to  be  left  behind,  to  sleep  and  to 
perish.  A  stupor,  a  perfect  indifference  for  life,  came  over 
many  of  them. 

The  exhausted  mules  sank  down  in  their  harness,  and  were 
left  as  they  fell.  All  were  left  who  could  not  help  them- 
selves. Each  man,  wrapped  in  his  own  misery,  cares  not  for 
his  comrade's  wretchedness,  but  as  the  reflection  of  his  own 
increases  its  intensity.  But  the  men  are  patient ;  accus- 
tomed as  they  are  to  long  marches,  they  make  little  com- 
plaint. Yet  there  was  one  thing  that  did  not  seem  fair :  that 
we  should  be  marched  on  a  line  of  railroad,  and  the  said  rail- 
road (Memphis  and  Little  Bock)  chartered  by  the  government, 
and  not  be  carried  over  it.  Perhaps  it  would  have  made 
our  heads  swim  to  have  been  put  through  so  fast.  Even  the 
sick  were  not  allowed  to  ride.  "We  arrived  in  camp  late  in 
the  evening,  after  marching  fourteen  miles,  the  rain  still 
pouring  down  in  torrents. 

And  without  any  tents  or  shelter  to  be  found, 
But  by  the  rain  we  were  all  drowned, 

To  cheer  our  hearts  for  Arkansas. 

Haying  no  shelter  to  protect  us  from  the  elements,  we  made 
large  fires  to  keep  us  warm.  Around  the  fires  were  groups 
of  sick,  huddled  together  to  protect  themselves  from  the 
wind's  fierce  charge.  Boys,  do  you  remember  it  ah1  now, 
without  the  aid  of  this  notice  ?  We  do  distinctly  and  most 
emphatically  remember  the  10th  of  October,  1862. 

On  the  morning  of  the  llth,  we  took  up  the  line  of  march, 
without  being  al^le  to  cook  breakfast,  owing  to  the  incessant 
rains.  Marched  seven  miles,  and  encamped  near  the  village 
of  Brownsville,  where  we  remained  until  the  morning  of  the 
13th.  We  discovered  that  the  alarm  about  the  enemy  get- 
ting in  our  rear  proved  false.  Colonels  Koberts'  and  Speight's 
Regiments,  and  Edgar's  Battery,  were  ordered  to  the  village 
of  Austin.  Could  a  correct  daguerreotype  view  have  been 
taken  of  us,  at  any  point  on  the  march  between  Clarendon 
Heights  and  Brownsville,  I  know  not  whether  it  would  excite 


44  WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 

more   pity  than  mirth ;  in  fact,  I  am  inclined  to  believe  it 
would  occasion  a  little  of  both. 

On  the  morning  of  the  14th,  the  balance  of  the  troops 
were  ordered  to  Austin,  distanced  about  thirteen  miles.  On 
our  arrival  near  the  village  we  encamped  near  some  springs. 
We  were  given  to  understand  that  this  camp  was  to  be  our 
winter-quarters,  and  to  be  known  by  the  name  of  Camp 
Nelson,  in  memory  of  General  Nelson,  who  died  a  few  days 
previous  to  our  arrival  at  this  place. 

Camp  Nelson  was  located  about  two  miles  east  of  Austin, 
in  a  belt  of  woods  skirting  the  valleys  running  east  and  west, 
shut  in  by  high  acclivities.  The  country  here  is  a  succession 
of  high,  rocky  hills,  and  deep,  dark,  narrow  denies,  sur- 
rounded on  all  sides  by  these  frowning  hills.  The  camp  was 
protected  from  the  cold,  piercing,  wintry  winds  ;  yet  it  also 
seemed  like  imprisoning  the  men  to  winter  them  here,  far 
distant  from  any  communication  with  friends  at  home.  Occa- 
sionally the  mail-carrier  from  Little  Rock  would  arrive  in 
camp,  bringing  glad  tidings  from  the  loved  ones  at  home. 
He  was  welcome  to  all  alike.  Occasionally,  curses  were  show- 
ered upon  him  for  not  bringing  letters  to  all.  He  would  con- 
sole them  by  telling  them  he  would  bring  them  a  letter  the 
next  time.  While  we  were  encamped  here  there  was  a  great 
deal  of  sickness  amongst  the  troops.  Dysentery  and  fevers 
of  various  kinds  made  many  victims.  The  hospital  was 
filled  with  sick.  The  sickness  was  owing  a  great  deal  to  the 
impure  water  we  had  to  use.  Fully  1,500  men  died  at 
Camp  Nelson.  It  was  a  sad  and  silent  affair  to  follow  a 
comrade-in-arms  to  his  final  restiog-placej^ gloomy  thoughts 
arose  in  many  a  manly  bosom.  How  mournful  thus  to  die, 
among  rough  but  sympathizing  comrades,  with  no  soft  hand 
to  wipe  the  death-damp  from  the  clammy  brow;  no  loved 
one's  voice  to  whisper  words  of  hope  and  consolation  to  the 
departing  spirit!  Yet  such  was  "the  beginning  of  the  end" 
to  many  a  sorrowful  scene  through  which  the  soldier  is  des- 
tined to  pass.  Now,  scenes  of  suffering  and  death  have  not 
blunted  the  feelings  or  familiarized  the  mind  with  human 


WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  45 

agony,  and  the  heart  must  needs  go  out  in  tender  sympathy 
toward  the  far-distant  relatives  of  the  buried  volunteer.  Ah, 
those  graves  of  our  dead ! — what  memories  come  back  at  the 
thought  of  them ! 

"  As  softly  as  starlight  melts  into  day, 
On  pinions  of  angBls  their  souls  passed  away. 
Strong  men  are  bound — in  anguish  they  weep 
O'er  the  dead  still  so  dear,  in  death's  quiet  sleep. 
But  ah !  far  away  o'er  mountain  and  glen 
Lie  the  homes  that  they  ne'er  shall  enter  again ; 
Where  loving  ones  wait  to  welcome,  in  joy, 
Back  to  their  sunlight  their  own  soldier  boy. 
But  above  them  now  sweeps  the  blue  azure  dome ; 
Ne'er  shall  parents  or  friends  welcome  them  home. 
Dear  comrades,  farewell  I  your  battles  are  o  'er  ; 
Together  in  conflict  we'll  rally  no  more. 
Farewell !  life  is  o'er  ;  earth  fades  from  your  sight ; 
Around  you  has  closed  death's  long  dreamless  night ;'' 

Agreeable  to  orders  from  Lieut.  General  Holmes,  command- 
ing the  Trans-Mississippi  Department,  Brigadier-General 
Henry  E.  McCulloch  was  assigned  to  the  duty  of  making  a 
general  organization  of  the  Texas  Volunteer  Infantry,  that  were 
encamped  at  Camp  Nelson,  into  a  division.  This  division 
consisted  of  four  brigades.  A  battery  of  light  artillery  was 
attached  to  each  brigade. 

The  following-named  officers  comprised  General  McOul- 
loch's  staff,  with  their  respective  rank,  viz. : 

MajorWM.  KING,  Quartermaster 

J.  H.  EARLE,  Commissary  of  Subsistence. 
Captain  WM.  A.  PITTS,  Ordnance  Officer. 
1st  Lieut.  A.  MCCULLOCH,  Aid-de-Gamp. 
Captain  B.  E.  BENTON,  Asst.  Adjt.  General. 

After  the  organization  of  the  division,  it  was  officially 
known  as  McCulloch's  Division.  Major  Gen'l  John  G.  Walker 
relieved  General  McCulloch  from  command  of  the  same,  about 
three  months  after  the  organization.  General  McCulloch  was 
assigned  to  the  command  of  the  3d  Brigade,  relieving  Colonel 
George  Flournoy  from  command  of  the  same.  The  division 


4:6  WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 

assumed  the  name  of  Walker's  Division,  and  was  known  by 
that  name  until  the  close  of  the  war,  notwithstanding  several 
changes  took  place  in  the  division  commanders.  The  division 
was  known  to  Confederate  troops,  as  well  as  to  many  of  the 
Federals,  by  the  very  appropriate  name  of  "  "Walker's  Grey- 
hounds." 

I  deem  it  necessary  to  remark  to  my  readers,  that  the 
muster-rolls  of  the  various  regiments  are  based  upon  the 
rolls  of  the  year  1863,  as  a  fair  standard  of  the  company  and 
staff  officers  then  on  duty.  Some  of  the  officers'  names  are 
omitted  from  the  list  of  names,  owing  to  the  fact  of  failing  to 
receive  the  necessary  information.  In  order  to  avoid  un- 
necessary expenses,  I  deemed  it  fair  and  just  to  avoid  giving 
the  names  of  officers  that  were  promoted,  or  killed,  or  those 
who  died,  and  those  who  resigned  from  the  cause  of  sickness  or 
otherwise,  etc. 

The  1st  Brigade  of  the  Division  was  commanded  by 
Colonel  Overton  Young,  of  the  8th  Texas  Volunteer  Infantry, 
and  consisted  of  the  following  regiments,  viz. : 

The  8th  T.  V.  Infantry,  commanded  by  Lieut.  Colonel  B.  A.  PHILLPOT, 
13th  T.  Dismounted  Cavalry    ".  "      Colonel  J.  H.  BURNETT, 

18th  T.  V.  Infantry  "  "      Colonel  W.  B.  OCHILTREE, 

22d  T.  V.  Infantry  "  "      Colonel  R.  B.  HUBBARD, 

and  Captain  Halderman's  Battery  of  Light  Artillery,  number- 
ing four  guns.  This  brigade  was  afterwards  commanded  by 
Brigadier-Generals  Haws,  Ward,  and  King.  The  following  are 
the  lists  of  the  company  and  regimental  officers  belonging  to 
the  brigade,  viz. : — 

NAMES  OF  OFFICERS  OF  THE  STH  TEXAS  V.  INFANTRY. 

Colonel  OVERTON  YOUNG. 
Lieut.  Col.  B.  A.  PHILLPOT. 
Major— J.    W.  RAINE. 
Surgeon— J.  R.  BEAUCHAMP. 
Asst.  Surgeon — U.  HAYNIE. 
Quartermaster— L.  H.  DUICHAM. 
Commissary — J.  E.  COOK. 
Adjutant — VOLNEY  ELLIS. 


WALKER  S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 


COMPANY  A. 
Captain,  Wm.  Clark. 
1st  Lieut.,  A.  G.  Nolan. 
2d  Lieut.,  Henry  Holtzclaw. 
3d  Lieut.,  W.  C.  Dilrell. 

COMPANY  B. 
Captain,  F.  Voight. 
1st  Lieut.,  M.  G.  Thomas. 
2d  Lieut.,  E.  G.  Grayson. 
2d  Lieut.,  E.  S.  Dickson. 

COMPANY  C. 

Captain,  E.  Smith. 
1st  Lieut.  Jas.  Weltman. 
3d  Lieut.,  T.M.  Price. 
2d  Lieut.,  B.  F.  Scott. 

COMPANY  D. 
Captain,  A.  D.  Story. 
1st  Lieut.,  J.  G.  Searcy. 
3d  Lieut.,  G.  D.  Campbell. 
2d  Lieut.,  Thomas  H.  Graves. 

COMPANY  E. 
Captain,  L.  H.  Durham. 
1st  Lieut.,  W.  R.  Turner. 
2d  Lieut.,  A.  J.  Ball. 
2d  Lieut.,  J.  C.  Holman. 


COMPANY  F, 
Captain,  Jas.  Jeffries. 
1st  Lieut.,  J.  A.  Holt. 
2d  Lieut.,  H.  Peudarves. 
2d  Lieut.,  S.  S.  Edney. 

COMPANY  G. 
Captain,  A.  T.  Simpson. 
1st  Lieut.,  S.  S.  Smith. 
2d  Lieut.,  Jeff.  Campbell. 
2d  Lieut.,  W.  H.  Harris. 

COMPANY  H. 
Captain,  A.  V.  Green. 
1st  Lieut.,  M.  A.  Fuller. 
2d  Lieut. ,  Clay  Robertson. 
2d  Lieut.,  C.  R.  Claybrook. 

COMPANY  I. 
Captain,  Wm.  Peck. 
1st  Lieut.,  W.  B.  Waldron. 
2d  Lieut.,  L.  T.  Epps. 
2d  Lieut.,  Clay  Robertson. 

COMPANY  K. 
Captain,  W.  M.  Nunn. 
1st  Lieut.,  John  H.  Yarbo. 
2d  Lieut.,  H.  H.  Jones. 
2d  Lieut.,  A.  Bugbee. 


JAMES  OF  OFFICERS  OF  THE  18TH  TEXAS  V.  INFANTRY. 


Colonel  —  W.  B.  OCHILTREE. 
Lieut-Col.  —  D.  B.  CULBERTSON. 
Major—  WM.  H.  KING. 
Surgeon  —  F.  D.  HALOWGUEST. 
Assistant  Surgeon—  J.  N.  B. 
Quartermaster  —  WM.  COLBY. 
Adjutant  —  D.  D.  WALTON. 


COMPANY  A. 
Captain,  M.  A.  Gaston. 
1st  Lieut.,  D.  A.  Gates. 
2d  Lieut.,  J.  W.  Richardson. 
2d  Lieut.,  J.  K.  Mathews. 


COMPANY  B. 
Captain,  R.  Z.  Buckner. 
1st  Lieut.,  W.  T.  Davenport. 
2d  Lieut.,  R.  Beaty. 
j  2d  Lieut.,  H.  F.  O'Neil. 


WALKER  S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 


COMPANY  C. 

Captain,  Thos.  R.  Bonner. 
1st  Lieut.,  A.  A.  Cameron. 
3d  Lieut.,  G.  M.  Martin. 
3d  Lieut.,  H.  McKnight. 

COMPANY  D. 
Captain,  John  K.  Cocke. 
1st  Lieut.,  G.  W.  Martin. 
3d  Lieut.,  J.  W.  Gillian. 
3d  Lieut.,  J..  H.  Bonner. 

COMPANY  E. 

Captain,  R.  Kunniugham. 
1st  Lieut.,  John  R.  Ferguson. 
2d  Lieut.,  A.  W.  Henderson. 
3d  Lieut.,  J.  J.  Davanay. 

COMPANY  F. 
Captain,  J.  G.  Wood. 
1st  Lieut.,  J.  Cherry. 
3d  Lieut.,  T.  B.  Coplin. 
3d  Lieut.,  V.  Evans. 


COMPANY  G. 
Captain,  J.  Dansby. 
1st  Lieut.,  C.  G.  Graham. 
3d  Lieut.,  H.  L.  Holt. 
3d  Lieut.,  S.  E.  Newsom. 

COMPANY  H. 
Captain,  J.  W.  Duncan. 
1st  Lieut.,  L.  W.  Stephens. 
3d  Lieut. ,  T.  S.  Skeen. 
3d  Lieut.,  B.  A.  Jones. 

COMPANY  I. 

Captain,  W.  W.  Thompson. 
1st  Lieut.,  J.  C.  Maple. 
3d  Lieut.,  Wiley  Mayers. 
3d  Lieut.,  M.  Farley. 

COMPANY  K. 

Captain,  W.  H.  Lovelady. 
1st  Lieut.,  T.  S.  Skeen, 
3d  Lieut.,  J.  M.  Castle. 
3d  Lieut.,  Thos.  E.  Vick. 


NAMES  OF  OFFICERS  OF  THE  13TH  TEXAS  DISM.  CAVALRY. 

Colonel — JOHN  H.  BURNETT. 

Lieut.-Col.—W.  A.  CRAWFORD. 

Major— C.  R.  BEATY. 

Surgeon — THOS.  H.  HOLLIS. 

Assistant  Surgeon — J.  R.  CORNISH. 

Quartermaster — R.  J.  BLAIN. 

Commissary —  * 

Adjutant — J.  PAT.  HENRY. 


COMPANY  A. 
Captain,  G.  W.  Nash. 
1st  Lieut.,  J.  H.  Noble. 
3d  Lieut.,  B.  Durst. 
3d  Lieut.,  H.  Dursh. 

COMPANY  B. 
Captain,  J.  F.  Smith. 
1st  Lieut.,  John  Long. 
3d  Lieut.,  J.  B.  Young. 
3d  Lieut.,  F.  A.  Bickham. 


COMPANY  C. 
Captain,  C.  J.  English. 
1st  Lieut.,  E.  D.  Cruddock. 
3d  Lieut.,  wi  H.  Crease. 
3d  Lieut.,  T.  B.  Payne. 

COMPANY  D. 
Captain,  Jas.  S.  Hawks. 
1st  Lieut.,  J.  C.  Oldham. 
3d  Lieut.,  R.  W.  Smith. 
3d  Lieut.,  G.  W.  Hudson. 


WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 


COMPANY  E. 
Captain,  Jas.  Eastland. 
1st  Lieut.,  J.  E.  Jennings. 
3d  Lieut.,  E.  E.  Jessup. 
2d  Lieut.,  J.  B.  Rouncervil. 

COMPANY  F. 
Captain,  S.  B.  Thomas. 
1st  Lieut.,  W.  J.  Reynolds. 
SdLieut.,  J.  B.  Wright. 
3d  Lieut.,  M.V.  Miller. 

COMPANY  G. 

Captain,  Thos.  F.  Frunth. 
1st  Lieut.,  W.  F.  Scale. 
2d  Lieut.,  M.  McAllister. 
3d  Lieut.,  W.  H.  Crawford. 


COMPANY  H. 

Captain,  S.  Stark. 
1st  Lieut.,  Thos.  J.  Bruck. 
3d  Lieut.,  John  D.  Williams. 
3d  Lieut.,  W.  T.  Hare. 

COMPANY  I. 
Captain,  S.  A.  Fairchild. 
1st  Lieut.,  G.  W.  Haynes. 
3d  Lie  at.,  F.  A.  Davis. 
3d  Lieut.,  H.  G.  Clure. 

COMPANY  K. 
Captain,  John  F.  Beam. 
1st  Lieut.,  C.  H.  Jones. 
3d  Lieut.,  E.  G.  Gercloff. 
3d  Lieut.,  W.  P.  Hicks. 


NAMES  OF  THE    OFFICERS  OF  THE   32o  TEXAS  V.  INFANTRY. 

Colonel— R.  B.  HUBBARD, 

Lieut.-Colonel—J.  J.  CANNON. 

Major— P.  F.  PARKS. 

Surgeon— E.  P.  BECTON. 

Assistant  Surgeon — W.  M.  HAMILTON. 

Quartermaster — F.  N.  GARY. 

Commissary DILITUMITY. 

Adjutant — BIRD  HOLLAND. 


COMPANY  A. 

Captain,  E.  A.  Brown. 

1st  Lieut.,  J.  L.  Brown. 

3d  Lieut.,  V.  A.  Paul. 

3d  Lieut.,  Jun.,  G.  W.  Traylor. 

COMPANY  B. 

Captain,  John  T.  Nelson. 
1st  Lieut.,  E.  Baker. 
3d  Lieut.,  B.  F.  Rogers. 
3d  Lieut.,  Jun.,  Joseph  Henry. 
4 


COMPANY  C. 

Captain,  S.  S.  Coizine. 

1st  Lieut.,  Win.  Boyd. 

3d  Lieut.,  A.  M.  Barnes. 

3d  Lieut.,  Jun.,  F.  M.  Tidwell. 

COMPANY  D. 

Captain  W.  R.  Anderson. 
1st  Lieut.,  J.  L.  Ewing. 
3d  Lieut.,  J.  C.  Swagerty. 
3d  Lieut.,  Jun.,  S.  L.  Shopner. 


50 


WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 


COMPANY  E. 

Captain,  A.  D.  Rensliaw. 
1st  Lieut.,  B.  C.  Stone. 
3d  Lieut.,  B.  W.  Browning. 
3d  Lieut.,  B.  P.  Stout. 

COMPANY  P. 
Captain,  John  Gaynes. 
1st  Lieut.,  G.  S.  Shotwell. 
3d  Lieut.,  H.  W.  Vinson. 
2d  Lieut.,  Jun.,  John  R.  Oats. 

COMPANY  G 
Captain,  J.  M.  Jones. 
1st  Lieut.,  A.  M.  Glover. 
3d  Lieut.,  J.  Abies. 
3d  Lieut.,  O.  N.  Shelton. 


COMPANY  H. 
Captain,  J.  J.  Carter. 
1st  Lieut.,  J.  H.  Rambo. 
3d  Lieut.,  J.  R.  Wright. 
3d  Lieut.  B.  W.  Lee. 

COMPANY  I. 
Captain,  E.  Sharp. 
1st  Lieut.,  R.  C.  McKinly. 
2d  Lieut.,  J.  W.  Wood. 
3d  Lieut.,  Jun.,  Wm.  Masterson. 

COMPANY  K. 
Captain,  P.  E.  Freeman. 
1st.  Lieut.,  J.  P.  Huddleston. 
3d  Lieut.,  J.  W.  Ewing. 
3d  Lieut.,  Robert  Good. 


NAMES  OF  THE  OFFICERS  OF    "HALDERMAN'S  BATTERY." 

Captain— HORACE  HALDERMAN. 

1st  Lieut.— A.  R.  GRAVES. 

1st  Lieut.— G.  P.  BASS. 

2d  Lieut. — CHAS.  SPANN. 

2d  Lieut.— W.  P.  ALLEN. 

Assistant  Surgeon. — G.  W.  BOYNTON. 


ORGANIZATION  OF  THE  3D  BRIGADE  BY  COLONEL  H.  RANDALL, 
OF  THE  38TH  T.  D.  CAVALRY. 


The  2d  Brigade  comprised  the  following  regiments  : 

The  38th  T.  D.  Cavalry,  commanded  by  Lieutenant-Colonel  E.  H.  BAXTER. 

"    llth  T.  V.  Infantry,  "  Colonel  0.  M.  ROBERTS. 

"  14th  "  "  Colonel  ED.  CLARKE. 

Gould's  Battalion,  "  Major  E.  S.  GOULD. 

And  Captain  Daniel's  Battery  of  Light  Artillery. 

The  Second  Brigade  was  commanded  by  General  McClay 
after  the  death  of  Colonel  (afterwards  General)  Horace  Kan- 
dall. 


WALKER  S    TEXAS  DIVISION. 


51 


The  following  officers  comprised  Colonel  H.  Randall's  staff : 

Colonel  RANDALL,  Commanding  Brigade. 
Major  B.  HARDEMAN,  Quartermaster. 
Major  J.  M.  DOUGLAS,  Commissary  of  Sup. 
Capt.  J.  M.  JESSUP,  Aid-de-Camp. 
Lieutenant  L.  RANDALL,  Ordnance  Officer. 
Capt.  J.  B.  HABDEMAN,  A.  A.  General. 


NAMES  OF  THE  OFFICERS  OF  THE  28TH  T.  D.  CAVALRY. 

Colonel— HOBACE  RANDAL. 
Lieut. -Col.— ~&\A  H.  BAXTER. 
Major— H.  G.  HALL. 
Surgeon — W.  P.  SMITH. 
Asst.  -Surgeon — E.  W.  CEADE. 
Quartermaster — N,  P.  WARD. 
Commissary — 
Adjutant — GEORGE  T.  HOWARD. 


COMPANY  A. 
Captain,  W.  A.  Jemison. 
1st  Lieut.,  J.  W.  Fuller. 
3d  Lieut.,  J.  H.  Claidy. 
3d  Lieut.,  John  B.  Dormon. 

COMPANY  B. 
Captain,  P.  Henry. 
1st  Lieut.,  James  H.  Cannon. 
3d  Lieut..  I.  P.  Smith. 
3d  Lieut.,  L  K.  Dolby. 

COMPANY  C. 

Captain,  A.  W.  D.  Berry. 
1st  Lieut.,  P.  W.  Clements. 
3d  Lieut.,  G.  0.  Thomas. 
3d  Lieut.,  E.I.  Newton. 

COMPANY  D. 
Captain,  J.  M.  Scott. 
1st  Lieut.,  D.  Skinlock. 
3d  Lieut.,  James  B.  Allen. 
3d  Lieut.,  A.  L.  Adams. 

COMPANY  E. 
Captain,  O.  M.  Doty. 
1st  Lieut.,  Wiley  J.  Thomas. 
3d  Lieut.,  S.  G.  Wolfe. 
3d  Lieut.,  William  A.  Muckleroy. 


COMPANY  F. 
Captain,  Theop.  Perry. 
1st  Lieut.,  John  McLemore. 
3d  Lieut.,  I.  L.  Wagnor. 
3d  Lieut.,  R.  Fitzpatrick. 

COMPANY  G. 
Captain,  W.  F.  Roberts. 
1st  Lieut.,  Geo.  B.  Campbell. 
3d  Lieut.,  James  H.  Gee. 
3d  Lieut.,  H.  M.  Warren. 

COMPANY  H. 
Captain,  J.  C.  Means. 
1st  Lieut.,  Jesse  Sheffield. 
3d  Lieut.,  W.  G.  Blain. 
3d  Lieut.,  W.  A.  Hobb. 

COMPANY  I. 

Captain,  J.  A.  McLemore. 
1st  Lieut.,  W.  B.  Vaughn. 
3d  Lieut.,  Morgan  Rye. 
3d  Lieut.,  T.  N.  Garmer. 

COMPANY  K. 
Captain,  W.  H.  Rumsey. 
1st.  Lieut.,  M.  M.  Sample. 
3d  Lieut.,  T.  M.  Lumsbright. 
3d  Lieut.,  J.  M.  Trosper. 


52 


WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 


NAMES  OF  THE  OFFICERS  OF  THE  HTH  T.  V.  INFANTRY. 

Colonel — 0.  M.  ROBERTS. 
Lieut.-Col. — JAMES  H.  JONES. 
Major — N.  J.  CARAWAY. 
Burgeon — A.  G.  V.  DONEY. 
Quartermaster — W.  M.  Ross. 
Commissary— J  OIL'S  H.  DOUGLAS. 
Adjutant— W.  H.  CHRISTIAN. 


COMPANY  A. 

Captain,  M.  Mast. 
1st  Lieut.,  John  C.  Fall. 
3d  Lieut.,  H.  H.  Cawthon. 
3d  Lieut.,  L.  B.  Polk. 

COMPANY  B. 

Captain,  Thomas  Smith. 
1st  Lieut.,  J.  L.  Tipps. 
3d  Lieut.,  James  W.  Weloh. 
3d  Lieut.,  O.  M.  Auh. 

COMPANY  C. 

Captain,  W.  G.  Engledow. 
1st  Lieut.,  W.  W.  Hill. 
3d  Lieut.,  J.  C.  Tarbutton. 
3d  Lieut.,  G.  W.  Stephens. 

COMPANY  D. 

Captain,  T.  H.  Rountree. 
1st  Lieut.,  E.  W.  Giles. 
3d  Lieut.,  D.  Scanlock. 
3d  Lieut.,  W.  H.  Lenke. 

COMPANY  E. 

Captain,  A.  F.  Jordon. 

1st  Lieut.,  J.  H.  Ross. 

3d  Lieut.,  George  T.  Harrison. 

3d  Lieut.,  W.  H.  Wooton. 


COMPANY  F. 

Captain,  R.  P.  Sibley. 
1st  Lieut.,  J.  H.  Oliphant. 
3d  Lieut.,  W.  T.  Eddington. 
3d  Lieut.,  W.  T.Nurris. 

COMPANY  G. 

Captain,  G.  T.  Walker. 
1st  Lieut.,  W.  D.  Thompson. 
3d  Lieut.,  J.  B.  Johnson. 
3d  Lieut.,  N.  J.  Cates. 

COMPANY  H. 

Captain,  A.  H.  Johnston. 
1st  Lieut.,  R.  B.  Roberts. 
3d  Lieut.,  James  Matthews. 
3d  Lieut.,  F.  W.  Harper. 

COMPANY  I. 

Captain,  T.  B.  Smith. 
1st  Lieut.,  Thomas  J.  Foster. 
3d  Lieut.,  E.  R.  Kaykendall. 
3d  Lieut.,  C.  Coulson. 

COMPANY  K. 

Captain,  O.  E.  Roberts. 
1st  Lieut.,  J.  J.  Fain. 
3d  Lieut.,  J.  A.  Derrick. 
3d  Lieut.,  W.  W.  Edwards. 


WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 


53 


NAMES  OP  THE  OFFICERS  OF  THE  14TH  T.  V.  INFANTRY. 

Colonel — EDWARD  CLARKE. 
Lieut.  Col. — WILLIAM  BYRD. 
Major — A.  H.  ROGERS. 
Surgeon — W.  E.  SAUNDERS. 
Asst.  Surgeon — W.  S.  FOWLER. 
Quartermaster— JOHN  BRYAN. 
Commissary — 
Asst.  Adjutant— R.  R.  JONES. 


COMPANY  A. 

Captain,  N.  S.  Allen. 
1st  Lieut.,  J.  H.  Van  Hook. 
3d  Lieut.,  B.  C.  Rain. 
3d  Lieut.,  J.  L.  Buchan. 

COMPANY  B. 

Captain,  W.  L.  Pickens. 
1st  Lieut.,  J.  L.  Thompson. 
3d  Lieut.,  P.  G.  Nebhut. 
3d  Lieut.,  J.  C.  Harcrow. 

COMPANY  C. 

Captain,  W.  I.  Smith. 
1st  Lieut.,  J.  D.  G.  Adrain. 
3d  Lieut.,  B.  W.  Boren. 
3d  Lieut,  B.  P.  Batey. 

COMPANY  D. 

Captain,  R.  F.  Wiley. 
1st  Lieut.,  C.  B.  Russell. 
3d  Lieut.,  S.  M.  Sears. 
3d  Lieut.,  Moses  Pace. 

COMPANY  E. 

Captain,  J.  J.  Flinn. 
1st  Lieut.,  W.  E.  Shipley. 
3d  Lieut.,  H.  C.  Hollis. 
3d  Lieut.,  W.  W.  Noble. 


COMPANY  F. 

Captain,  E.  B.  Gassaway. 
1st  Lieut.,  G.  W.  Davis. 
3d  Lieut.,  W.  H.  Farrie. 
3d  Lieut.,  William  Davis. 

COMPANY  G. 

Captain,  D.  C.  Laird. 
1st  Lieut.,  William  Gibson. 
3d  Lieut.,  W.  M.  Seeton. 
3d  Lieut., L.  A.  Denson. 

COMPANY  H. 

Captain,  P.  G.  Nebhut. 
1st  Lieut.,  J.  F.  Buchan. 
3d  Lieut.,  Mileno  McKing. 
3d  Lieut.,  Jesse  Woodward. 

COMPANY  I. 

Captain,  J.  M.  Spratt. 
1st  Lieut.  ,.B.  F.  Hart. 
3d  Lieut.,  W.  A.  Nieth. 
3d  Lieut.,  S.  H.  Cox. 

COMPANY  K. 

Captain,  Sam.  J.  Lyle. 
1st  Lieut., 

3d  Lieut.,  K.  H.  Lockhart. 
2d  Lieut.,  A.  D.  Spratt. 


WALKEE'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 


NAMES  OF  THE  OFFICERS  OF  GOULD'S  BATTALION. 

Major — ROBEKT  S.  GOULD. 
Surgeon — W.  E.  SAUNDERS. 
Quartermaster — HENRY  D.  PATRICK. 
Adjutant— C.  T.  BANNMAN. 


COMPANY  A. 
Captain,  P.  I.  Holly. 
1st  Lieut.,  W.  R.  Hulett. 
3d  Lieut.,  S.  S.  Strong. 
3d  Lieut.,  E.  W.  Womack. 

COMPANY  B. 

Captain,  William  W.  Veser. 
1st  Lieut.,  Neil  McMillan. 
2d  Lieut.,  J.  T.  Glass. 
3d  Lieut.,  T.  I.  Camp. 

COMPANY  C. 

Captain,  James  McClean. 
1st  Lieut., 

3d  Lieut.,  D.  B.  Grigsby. 
2d  Lieut.,  R.  H.  Grigsby. 


COMPANY  D. 

Captain,  Thomas  J.  Thorn. 
1st  Lieut.,  J.  D.  Polk. 
3d  Lieut.,  L.  D.  Goodwyn. 
3d  Lieut.,  Sam.  Hanna. 

COMPANY  E. 
Captain,  A.  G.  Rogers. 
1st  Lieut.,  T.  J.  Nison. 
3d  Lieut.,  I.  R.  Barbee. 
3d  Lieut.,  C.  G.  Wooten. 

N.  B.— On  Nov.  13th,  1864,  Com- 
panics  A  and  B  of  the  squadron  of 
Cavalry  attached  to  the  Division, 
was  dismounted  and  attached  to 
Gould's  Battalion.  Major  Gould  was 
promoted  Lieut.-Colonel,  and  Captain 
Veser  to  Major  of  the  same. 


NAMES  OF  THE  OFFICERS  OF  "  DANIEL'S  BATTERY.' 

Captain — J.  M.  DANIEL. 

1st  Lieut.— 

1st  Lieut. — 

2d  Lieut.— 

2d  Lieut. — J.  J.  WILSON. 

Assistant  Surgeon — G.  W.  BRYAN. 


ORGANIZATION  OF  THE  THIRD  BRIGADE  BY  COLONEL  GEORGE 
FLOURNOY,  OF  THE  16TH  TEXAS  V.  INFANTRY. 

The  3d  Brigade  comprised  the  following  regiments,  viz. : 

The  16th  Texas  V.  Infantry,  .commanded  by  Lieut-Colonel  J.  SHEPARD  ; 

"  16th     "      D.  Cavalry,  "  Colonel  WM.  FITZHUGH  ; 

"  17th      "      V.  Infantry,          "  "       R.  T.  P.  ALLEN  ; 

"  19th     "  "  "  "      R.  WATERHOUSE  ; 

And  Captain  Edgar's  Battery  of  Light  Artillery. 


WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 


55 


The  3d  Brigade  was  afterwards  commanded  by  General 
H.  E.  McCulloch,  General  Tom  Scurry,  and  General  E.  Water- 
house. 


NAMES  OF  THE  OFFICERS  OF  THE    16TH  T.  V.  INFANTRY. 


Colonel — GEORGE  FLOURNOY. 
Lieut.-Colonel— JAMES  E.  SHEPARD. 
Major — W.  H.  REDWOOD. 
Surgeon — U.  G.  M.  WALKER. 
Assistant  Surgeon — I.  W.  COCKE. 
Quartermaster — A.  F.  FLOWERS. 
Commissary — A.  C.  McNEELY. 
Adjutant — R.  L.  UPSHAW. 


COMPANY  A. 
Captain,  X.  B.  Sanders. 
1st  Lieut.,  J.  M.  White. 
3d  Lieut.,  J.  F.  Estes. 
3d  Lieut.,  Ishmael  Kile. 

COMPANY  B. 
Captain,  W.  F.  Jerrell. 
1st  Lieut.,  A.  Testand. 
3d  Lieut.,  H.  L.  Lewis. 
3d  Lieut.,  M.  M.  Murdock. 

COMPANY  C. 
Captain,  M.  H.  Bowers. 
1st  Lieut.,  Joseph,  Bird. 
3d  Lieut.,  John  R.  Spann. 
3d  Lieut.,  J.  S.  Vaughn. 

COMPANY  D. 

Captain,  A.  H.  Chalmers. 
1st  Lieut,  E.  Taylor. 
3d  Lieut.,  W.  S.  McLaughlin. 
3d  John  Rumsey. 

COMPANY  E. 
Captain,  G.  T.  Harold. 
1st  Lieut.,  A.  E.  Klaedon. 
3d  Lieut.,  C.  H.  Hanke. 
3d  Lieut.,  J.  Groff. 


COMPANY  F. 
Captain,  Z.  Hunt. 
1st  Lieut.,  Z.  W.  Matthews. 
3d  Lieut.,  B.  T.  Harris. 
3d  Lieut.,  C.  M.  Campbell. 

COMPANY  G. 
Captain,  Fred.  Moore. 
1st  Lieut.,  C.  F.  Millet. 
3d  Lieut.,  John  Davidson. 
3d  Lieut.,  John  O.  Johnson. 

COMPANY  H. 
Captain,  M.  Quin. 
1st  Lieut.,  J.  B.  Good. 
3d  Lieut.,  J.  McDonald. 
3d  Lieut.,  J.  R.  Cory  ell. 

COMPANY  I. 
Captain,  Alex.  McDow. 
1st  Lieut.,  V.  S.  Rubb. 
3d  Lieut.,  W.  H.  Ledbetter. 
3d  Lieut.,  N.  Franklin. 

COMPANY  K. 

Captain, Peel. 

1st  Lieut.,  T.  J.  Peel. 

3d  Lieut.,  A.  Ramer. 

3d  Lieut.,  James  Donahoe. 


56 


WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 


NAMES  OF  THE  OFFICERS  OF  THE  16TH  T.  D.  CAVALRY 


Colonel — WM.  FITZHUGH. 
Lieut.-Colonel—E.  P.  GREGG. 
Major — W.  W.  DRUMOND. 
Surgeon,— W.  P.  HEAD. 

Assistant  Surgeon BIRDSONG. 

Assist.  Quartermaster — DAVID  RHINE. 
Assistant  Commissary 
Adjutant— T.  H.  HUDSON. 


COMPANY  A. 

Captain,  F.  M.  Dougherty. 
1st  Lieut.  G.  T.  Bird. 
3d  Lieut.,  H.  Coppage. 
3d  Lieut.,  Hugh  Cox. 

COMPANY  B. 
Captain,  R.  C.  Coffey. 
1st  Lieut.,  G.  W.  Fitzhugh. 
3d  Lieut.,  James  M.  Tucker. 
2d  Lieut.,  James  A.  Poindexter. 

COMPANY  C. 

Captain,  James  D.  Woods. 
1st  Lieut.,  George  W.  McGlothlen. 
3d  Lieut.,  George  A.  Dickeman. 
3d  Lieut.,  W.  A.  Anderson. 

COMPANY  D. 

Captain,  John  H.  Talbert. 
1st  Lieut.,  W.  D.  McDonald. 
3d  Lieut.,  C.  S.  Dwining. 
3d  Lieut.,  A.  Clark. 

COMPANY  E. 

Captain,  W.  T.  G.  Weaver. 
1st  Lieut.,  J.  K.  P.  Russell. 
3d  Lieut.,  D.  M.  WaddiU. 
3d  Lieut.,  F.  Kilgore. 


COMPANY  F. 
Captain,  W.  H.  Taylor. 
1st  Lieut.,  T.  J.  Taylor. 
3d  Lieut.,  E.  M.  Young. 
3d  Lieut.,  J.  M.  Cope. 

COMPANY  G. 
Captain,  M.  W.  King. 
1st  Lieut.,  G.  M.  Hobson. 
3d  Lieut.,  T.  H.  Batsell. 
3d  Lieut.,  J.  W.  Connolly. 

COMPANY  H. 
Captain,  G.  H.  Fitzhugh. 
1st  Lieut.,  L.  Walker. 
3d  Lieut.,  J.  J.  Miller. 
3d  Lieut.,  W.  H.  McDaniel. 

COMPANY  I. 

Captain,  Thos.  F.  Mosbey. 
1st  Lieut.,  W.  B.  Sargent. 
3d  Lieut.,  S.  J.  Hodges. 
3d  Lieut.,  W.  J.  McAnew. 

COMPANY  K. 
Captain,  Fred.  L.  Gates. 
1st  Lieut.,  August  Buhner. 
3d  Lieut.,  J.  W.  Kulfir 
3d  Lieut.,  J.  M.  Morrill. 


WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 


57 


NAMES  OF  THE  OFFICERS  OF  THE  17ra  T.  V.  INFANTRY. 

Colonel— R,.  T.  P.  ALLEN. 

Lieut. -Colonel— GEORGE  W.  JONES. 

Major— J.  W.  TABOR. 

Surgeon — D.  PORT.  SMYTHE. 

Assistant  Surgeon— R.  H.  LEWIS. 

Assistant  Commissary — CYRUS  COFFY. 

Adjutant— T.  M.  HUNT. 


COMPANY  A. 
Captain,  R.  D.  Allen. 
1st  Lieut.,  John  E.  Martin. 
3d  Lieut.,  O.  H.  P.  Garrett. 
3d  Lieut.,  I.  C.  Douglass. 

COMPANY  B. 
Captain,  I.  Z.  Miller. 
1st  Lieut.,  Ciceo  Nash. 
4d  Lieut. ,  Samuel  Fleming. 
,cd  Lieut.,  Chas.  Keton. 

COMPANY  C. 

Captain,  Thomas  H.  Gutlin. 
1st  Lieut.,  B.  T.  Middleton. 
2d  Lieut.,  Geo.  G.  Tucker. 
3d  Lieut.,  I.  M.  Fort. 

COMPANY  D. 

Captain,  H.  Ryan. 
1st  Lieut.,  A.  J.  Ridge. 
2d  Lieut.,  A.  Boyce. 
3d  Lieut.,  L.  T.  Duson. 

COMPANY  E. 

Captain,  Seth  Mabey. 
1st  Lieut.,  J.  M.  Young. 
2d  Lieut.,  Geo.  W.  Miller. 
3d  Lieut.,  W.  Rice. 


COMPANY  F. 
Captain,  E.  P.  Petty. 
1st  Lieut.,  J.  S.  Cunningham. 
2d  Lieut.,  H.  N.  Little. 
2d  Lieut.,  H.  McLester. 

COMPANY  G. 
Captain,  W.  J.  Maltby. 
1st  Lieut.,  C.  M.  Smith. 
2d  Lieut.,  D.  V.  Grant. 
3d  Lieut.,  O.  W.  Wimberly. 

COMPANY  H. 
Captain,  C.  A.  Sabath. 
1st  Lieut.,  E.  Kollmaner. 
3d  Lieut.,  J.  C.  Douglas. 
3d  Lieut.,  W.  B.  Rover. 

COMPANY  I. 
Captain,  John  Smith. 
1st  Lieut.,  J.  Jalonick. 
3d  Lieut.,  R.  H.  Taylor. 
3d  Lieut.,  Jno.  W.  Houston. 

COMPANY  K. 

Captain,  S.  J.  P.  McDowell. 
1st  Lieut.,  J.  B.  Long. 
3d  Lieut.,  E.  H.  Rogan. 
3d  Lieut.,  B.  F.  Luce. 


58 


WALKEB'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 


NAMES  OF  OFFICERS  OF  THE  19TH  TEXAS  V.  INFANTRY. 

Colonel — R.  WATERHOUSE. 
Lieut.-Golonel— E.  W.  TAYLOR. 
Major — W.  L.  CRAWFORD. 
Surgeon — J.  P.  HERVEY. 
Assistant  Surgeon — J.  E.  KIRLEY. 
Quartermaster — A.  C.  SMITH. 


Adjutant — J.  B.  JONES. 


COMPANY  A. 

Captain,  W.  J.  Clarke. 
1st  Lieut.,  J.  H.  McDermott. 
2d  Lieut.,  W.  N.  Covey. 
3d  Lieut.,  R.  W.  Hill. 

COMPANY  B. 

Captain,  B.  A.  Baker. 
1st  Lieut.,  W.  B.  Rountree. 
2d  Lieut.,  H.  W.  Makoffey. 
2d  Lieut.,  Jasper  Thomas. 

COMPANY  C. 

Captain,  A.  C.  Allen. 
1st  Lieut.,  G.  W.  Smith. 
2d  Lieut.,  L.  P.  Moughan. 
2d  Lieut.,  John  Punkhurst. 

COMPANY  D. 

Captain,  C.  S.  Marshall. 
1st  Lieut.,  M.  M.  Deerson. 
2d  Lieut.,  T.  B.  Yarborough. 
2d  Lieut.,  W.  R.  Hoover. 

COMPANY  E. 

Captain,  A.  R.  K.  Northrop. 
1st  Lieut.,  J.  R.  Jones. 
2d  Lieut.,  J.  G.  Lee. 
2d  Lieut.,  J.  E.  Kirkley. 


COMPANY  F. 

Captain,  F.  D.  Sedberry. 
1st  Lieut.,  K.  D.  Bateman. 
2d  Lieut.,  W.  H.  Mason. 
2d  Lieut.,  C.  C.  Coppedge. 

COMPANY  G. 

Captain,  L.  M.  Ferguson. 
1st  Lieut.,  J.  J.  Bradley. 
2d  Lieut.,  O;  C.  Connor. 
2d  Lieut.,  I.  J.  Arberry. 

COMPANY  H. 

Captain,  H.  A.  Wallace. 
1st  Lieut.,  J.  R.  K.  Brooks. 
2d  Lieut.,  W.  M.  Wallace. 
2d  Lieut.,  W.  E.  Barksdale. 

COMPANY  I. 

Captain,  J.  A.  Piques. 
1st  Lieut.,  A.  M.  Ewing. 
2d  Lieut.,  W.  K.  Hoover. 
2d  Lieut.,  P.  P.  Robinson. 

COMPANY  K. 

Captain,  S.  A.  Minter. 
1st  Lieut.,  T.  H.  Pogue. 
2d  Lieut.,  J.  S.  Minter. 
2d  Lieut.,  S.  S.  Bromley. 


WALKEB'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  59 


NAMES  OF  OFFICERS  OF  EDGAR'S  BATTERY. 


Captain,  Wm.  Edgar. 
1st  Lieut.,  J.  M.  Ransom. 
1st  Lieut.,  John  D.  Grumbus. 


2d  Lieut.,  H.  Hall. 

2d  Lieut.,  N.  R.  Gomey. 

Assistant  Surgeon,  T.  C.  Thompson. 


The  4th  Brigade,  commanded  by  Colonel  Deshler,  consisted 
of  his  own  regiment,  the  18th  T.  D.  Cavalry,  commanded  by 
Lieut.-Colonel  Darnell,  and  the 

10th  T.  V.  Infantry,  commanded  by  Colonel  R.  Q.  MILLS. 

15th  T.  D.  Cavalry,       "        "  "      SWEET. 

25th  T.  D.      "  "        "  "      GILLESPIE. 

The  4th  Brigade,  commanded  by  Colonel  Deshler,  might 
be  said  to  be  only  temporarily  attached  to  the  division,  from 
the  fact  that  they  left  the  division  shortly  after  it  was  organ- 
ized. Shortly  after  their  withdrawal  from  the  division,  they 
were  captured  at  the  Arkansas  Post.  After  they  were  ex- 
changed, they  remained  east  of  the  Mississippi  Biver. 

Shortly  after  the  organization  of  the  division,  Lieutenant- 
General  Holmes  arrived  in  camp  from  Little  Bock,  to  review 
each  brigade  of  the  division  separately.  He  was  well  pleased 
with  the  discipline  of  the  troops.  After  the  review,  every- 
thing remained  quiet  in  camp  until  the  night  of  the  20th 
of  November,  when  we  were  aroused  out  of  our  slumbers  by 
hearing  the  "long-roll"  beat.  As  this  was  the  recognized 
signal  of  danger,  there  was  rolling,  tumbling,  and  jumping  out 
from  our  berths  or  bunks ;  a  general  scramble  for  clothing, 
intermingled  with  all  kinds  of  cries  and  exclamations  :  "  Where 
are  my  shoes  ?  "  "  Who  has  my  pants  ?  "  "  Where  in  the  devil 
is  my  coat?"  etc.  We  arrived  on  the  parade-ground,  some 
clothed,  others  deshabille,  hatless  and  shoeless — a  motley 
crowd  indeed — only  to  find  a  pleasant  moonlight  morn  and 
nothing  astir. 

We  had  been  inconti  nently  "  sold "  by  some  staff-officer, 
who  gave  the  alarm  to  ascertain  how  long  a  period  of  time 
it  would  take  us  to  form  in  line  of  battle.  After  remaining  in 
line  of  battle  for  half  an  hour,  another  staff-officer  rode 


60  WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 

along  the  line,  and  directed  regimental  commanders  to  allow 
their  men  to  return  to  their  quarters  again.  Many  of  the  men 
enjoyed  the  joke,  while  others  used  the  king's  English  in  a 
manner  not  taught  in  the  Bible.  The  excitement  soon  died 
away,  and  we  remained  in  camp  till  the  morning  of  the  24th, 
when  we  took  a  final  adieu  of  camp  Nelson. 


WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  61 


CHAPTEE  VI. 

LEAVE  CAMP  NELSON. — ARRIVAL  AT  BAYOU  METOR. — GRAND  REVIEW 
OF  THE  DIVISION.— THE  DIVISION  ORDERED  TO  VICKSBURQ.— EN 
ROUTE  FOR  VAN  BUREN.— CAMP  NEAR  LITTLE  ROCK.— SPENDING 
CHRISTMAS  IN  CAMP.— SPECIAL  ORDER. 

the  morning  of  the  24th  of  November,  we  took  up 
the  line  of  march  for  Bayou  Metor,  distant  about 
eleven  miles  from  Camp  Nelson ;  marched  eight 
miles  and  camped. 

Nov.  25th.  Marched  three  miles.  It  took  us  until  late  in 
the  evening  to  get  our  wagons  over  a  shaky  and  boggy 
bottom ;  each  regiment  was  engaged  in  corduroying  the  road 
to  get  their  wagons  over.  For  the  information  of  the  unini- 
tiated, I  must  tell  them  that  corduroying  a  road  is  placing 
two  or  three  tiers  of  trees  along  like  a  railroad-track,  and 
then  across  those  others  are  laid,  and  the  interstices  filled  in 
with  earth.  We  made  several  miles  of  such  in  our  campaigns 
through  Arkansas  and  Louisiana.  After  we  got  our  wagons 
over  safely,  we  shortly  arrived  at  our  camp  on  Bayou  Metor, 
where  we  remained  until  December  1st. 

The  following  day,  after  our  arrival  at  Bayou  Metor,  we 
received  orders  to  make  preparations  for  a  "grand  review,"  to 
be  held  by  General  Holmes,  on  the  morning  of  the  27th. 
The  troops  were  busily  engaged  in  cleaning  themselves,  as 
well  as  their  arms  and  accouterments,  so  as  to  make  a  good 
appearance  before  their  department-commander. 

About  8  o'clock,  A.  M.,  on  the  morning  of  the  27th,  the 
division,  accompanied  by  their  respective  batteries  of  artil- 
lery, proceeded  to  the  parade-ground,  distant  about  three 
miles  from  our  camp.  The  ground  selected  was  quite  exten- 


62  WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 

siye,  and  very  well  suited  for  the  formation  and  inspection 
of  troops.  Shortly  after  our  arrival  on  the  parade-ground, 
Genera]  Holmes,  accompanied  by  his  respective  staff-officers, 
arrived  on  the  ground,  from  Little  Bock.  Several  carriages, 
with  citizens,  accompanied  him,  to  witness  the  review.  As 
he  rode  rapidly  along  the  line  to  examine  the  condition  of  the 
troops,  the  bands  struck  up  the  tune  of  "Hail  to  the  Chief." 
After  taking  his  position,  the  column  passed  in  review.  At 
the  head  of  the  column  was  General  McCulloch  and  staff, 
followed  by  Young's  Brigade,  then  KandalTs,  next  Flournoy's, 
and  their  respective  batteries.  This  review — the  first  real 
review  of  the  Division — presented  a  dazzling  sight.  There 
they  are,  before  you — the  columns  extending  for  about  two 
miles  marching  along  with  their  guns  and  bayonets  glitter- 
ing in  the  morning  sun,  and  the  gay  flags  and  banners 
flaunting  in  the  breeze — there  they  are,  infantry  and  artillery ; 
brigade  and  regimental  commanders,  dressed  in  gorgeous 
uniforms,  and  riding  prancing  steeds  richly  caparisoned ;  staff 
officers  gay  and  sparkling,  full  of  ambition  and  the  hope  of 
winning  an  honored  name.  After  the  review  we  returned 
to  camp.  Had  dress-parade  at  5  o'clock,  P.  M.  Orders  were 
announced  for  company  commanders  to  make  out  their  pay- 
rolls. On  presentation  of  the  pay-rolls  to  the  regimental 
quartermasters,  the  troops  received  two  months'  pay.  After 
receiving  their  pay,  the  officers  had  gay  times,  going  to 
parties  given  by  the  citizens  in  the  neighborhood.  Doubt- 
less, to  this  day  the  buxom  Arkansas  ladies  in  that  vicinity 
remember  the  Texans,  with  their  manly  bearing,  good  looks, 
polished  ease  and  elegance  of  manners,  and  graceful  move- 
ments. The  majority  of  these  men  were  gentlemen,  once 
moving  in  refined  society  at  home,  and  nothing  more  de- 
lighted them  than  to  exhibit  their  accomplishments  to  the 
astonished  gaze  of  these  same  plain,  honest,  country  people. 

The  soldiers  enjoyed  themselves  in  dancing  and  singing 
during  the  evening,  filling  the  quiet  air  with  their  harmoni- 
ous voices ;  the  pleasant  songs  floating  away  in  the  quiet- 
ude, in  soft,  echoing  refrains. 


WALKEE'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  63 

. 

Nov.  28th.  Orders  were  read  at  dress-parade  for  company 
drills  four  hours  each  day.  There  was  a  very  alarming  in- 
crease of  sickness.  Drill!  what,  and  give  up  all  other 
schemes  ?  Verily,  no !  The  life  of  ease  and  pleasure  which 
had  made  the  hours  pass  away,  had  undoubtedly  incapacitat- 
ed the  men  from  doing  soldier's  duty.  Was  it  really  so  ? 
Let  us  see  how  the  sequel  proves. 

Dec.  1st.  Moved  camp  five  miles  further  up  the  bayou. 
Nothing  worthy  of  notice  transpired  in  camp  until  the  eve- 
ning of  the  4th  insi,  when  it  commenced  to  snow,  continuing 
to  do  so  all  night.  Next  morning  we  awoke  to  find  the 
ground  hidden  'neath  winter's  white  mantle,  while  the  light, 
feathery  flakes  were  rapidly  descending  from  the  dark  clouds 
overhead.  On  the  morning  of  the  6th,  the  sun  rose  on  a  win- 
try scene  of  dazzling  beauty,  such  as  the  eye  seldom  gazes  on. 
The  air  was  sharp  and  biting,  the  ground  beautiful  in  its 
smooth  whiteness;  while  the  limbs,  twigs,  and  boughs  of 
the  trees  glittered  and  glistened  as  the  sun  shown  upon  their 
crystal  covering  of  ice,  as  if  incased  in  diamonds. 

It  was  one  of  winter's  most  magnificent  pictures,  calling 
forth  unbounded  expressions  of  admiration  from  those  who 
had  never  witnessed  such  a  spectacle.  It  was,  indeed,  some- 
thing new  to  those  who  had  been  accustomed  only  to  the 
softly-smiling  skies  and  balmy  atmosphere  of  Texas. 

On  the  morning  of  the  10th,  General  H.  E.  McCulloch  was 
ordered  by  General  Holmes  to  hold  his  division  ready  to 
move  to  Vicksburg,  Miss. 

On  the  morning  of  the  13th  we  took  up  the  line  of  march 
to  Yicksburg,  marching  18  miles.  After  our  arrival  in  camp, 
a  courier  arrived  with  dispatches  from  General  Holmes  to 
General  McCulloch,  countermanding  the  Vicksburg  march, 
and  ordering  the  division  to  march  to  Van  Buren,  Arkansas. 

Dec.  14th.  Marched  eight  miles,  through  mud  and  water. 
The  "iron  horse"  on  the  Memphis  and  Little  Eock  Kail- 
road  blew  his  whistle,  as  much  as  to  say :  if  we  came  to 
Arkansas  with  the  expectation  of  riding  on  railroads  we 
would  find  ourselves  mistaken. 


64  WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 

Dec.  15th.  Marched  nineteen  miles.  On  our  line  of  march 
Major  C.  F.  Morgan's  Squadron  of  Cavalry  passed  us  on 
their  way  to  reinforce  General  Hindman,  who  was  reported 
retreating  in  the  direction  of  Fort  Smith,  followed  by  a  large 
force  of  Federals,  commanded  by  General  Curtis.  After 
getting  about  four  miles  above  Little  Eock  our  route  of  march 
was  again  countermanded.  The  division  was  ordered  to 
camp  nearly  opposite  Little  Eock. 

On  the  evening  of  the  16th,  Colonel  Speight's  Eegiment  was 
ordered  to  the  Indian  Nation. 

We  remained  encamped  opposite  Little  Eock  long  enough 
to  spend  Christmas,  and  anything  but  a  merry  Christmas. 
Many  of  us  had  intended  to  keep  Christmas  somewhat  after 
the  manner  of  our  home  style,  but  we  could  purchase  neither 
eggs  nor  whisky  in  Little  Eock,  to  make  an  egg-nog.  We 
were,  therefore,  compelled  to  make  our  Christmas  dinner  of  a 
piece  of  corn  bread  and  some  blue  beef.  On  Christmas  night 
the  citizens  of  Little  Eock  could  witness  fully  15,000  camp- 
fires,  that  glowed  and  sparkled  like  the  gas-lights  of 
a  city. 

The  imagination  can  easily  picture  such  a  Christmas  night- 
scene  in  camp.  The  sentinel's,  challenge,  and  the  strains  of  the 
regimental  bands,  ring  clearly  and  musically  on  the  night-air. 
Around  the  fires  that  glow  and  flame,  the  men  were  grouped, 
singing,  joking,  laughing  with  a  light-hearted  ease,  as  if  they 
never  knew  "  dull  care."  Most  of  them  were  full  of  practical 
jokes,  light  and  sparkling  as  champagne,  and  had  a  gay 
faculty  of  taking  the  sunny  side  of  everything.  No  wonder 
if,  amid  such  scenes,  the  soldier's  thoughts  fled  back  to  his 
home,  to  his  loved  wife,  to  the  kisses  of  his  darling  child,  to 
the  fond  Christmas  greeting  of  his  parents,  brothers,  sisters, 
friends,  until  his  eyes  were  dimmed  with  the  dews  of  the 
heart  The  exile  feels  a  longing  desire,  particularly  at 
Christmas  time,  for  the  pleasant,  genial  fireside  and  loving 
hearts  of  home.  How  many  of  that  group  will,  ere  another 
Christmas  comes,  sleep  in  a  bloody  and  nameless  grave  ? 

Dec.  26th.  Left  camp  at  sunrise ;  re-crossed  the  Arkansas 


WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  65 

Eiver  at  Little  Eock,  and  camped  three  miles  from  town,  on 
the  Pine  Bluff  Eoad.  In  the  evening  the  following  order  was 
read,  on  "  dress-parade,"  to  each  regiment  in  the  division  : 

SPECIAL  OKDEE  No.  121. 

1st.  Major-General  John  G.  Walker,  having  reported  to 
these  headquarters,  in  obedience  to  Special  Order  No.  264,  Ad- 
jutant and  Inspector-General's  Office,  is  assigned  to  the  com- 
mand of  the  Division  of  Texas  troops  now  commanded  by 
Brigadier-General  McCulloch.  On  being  relieved  by  Major- 
General  Walker,  Brigadier-General  McCulloch  will  assume 
command  of  Flournoy's  Brigade,  same  Division. 

2d.  Major-General  Walker,  with  his  Division,  will  move 
without  delay,  and  take  post  at  Pine  Bluff. 

By  command  of  Major-General  HOLMES. 


66  WALKEE'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 


CHAPTEE  YII. 


MARCH  FROM  LITTLE  ROCK  TO  PINE  BLUFF.— COUNTER-MARCHING. — GEN- 
ERAL WALKER  ASSUMES  COMMAND  OF  THE  DIVISION. — HOG  STEALING. 
— DESCRIPTION  OF  PINE  BLUFF. — EN  ROUTE  FOR  ARKANSAS  POST. — 
DISPATCHES  FROM  GENERAL  CHURCHILL  TO  GENERAL  WALKER. — SUR- 
RENDER OF  THE  ARKANSAS  POST.  —CAMP  "FREEZE  OUT."  —  PICKET 
DUTY. — ARRIVAL  OF  GENERAL  HOLMES. — FORTIFYING  AT  CAMP  "  FREEZE 
OUT." 


N  the  morning  of  December  27th  we  took  up  the  line 
of  march  for  Pine  Bluff.  About  four  miles  from  Little 
Bock,  the  Pine  Bluff  road  leaves  the  river  ;  conse- 
quently the  scenery,  marching  through  the  Pine  Hills,  is  not 
very  interesting.  We  struck  camp  on  the  side  of  a  hill,  after 
marching  fifteen  miles. 

Dec.  28th.  Marched  eleven  miles,  over  a  rocky  and  hilly 
country. 

Dec.  29th.  Marched  eleven  miles,  over  the  same  kind  of 
road  as  yesterday. 

On  the  31st  of  December  we  took  up  the  line  of  march, 
back  by  the  road  we  came,  to  Little  Kock.  Marched  fifteen 
miles. 

The  year  '62  went  out  amid  a  blustering  storm.  The  wind 
blew  almost  a  hurricane,  shrieking  forth  a  watchful  requiem 
over  the  dying  year.  The  gloom  was  indicative  of  the  dark 
storm-cloud  of  war,  that  hung  like  a  funeral  pall  over  the 
land,  bringing  sorrow  and  woe  to  thousands  of  once  happy 
households.  The  mind  involuntarily  winged  a  thought  to- 
ward the  coming  year,  and  sadly  questioned,  "Will  1863  still 
find  the  land  the  scene  of  bloodshed  and  fierce  strife  ?  "  It 
trusted  not ;  and  looked  forward  to  the  day-spring  of  brighter 
hopes.  The  Confederate  soldiers,  the  patriot  sons  of  the 
South,  were  thought  of  amid  their  terrible  sufferings  in  Ten- 


WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  67 

nessee  and  Virginia,  as  they  nobly  endeavored  to  roll  back 
the  swift  tide  of  invasion. 

"We  remained  at  this  camp  until  the  morning  of  the  2d  of 
January,  1863  ;  in  the  mean  time  the  following  order  was  read 
on  dress-parade,  announcing  the  change  of  commanders  of 
the  division : 

GENERAL  ORDER  No.  1. 

In  accordance  with  instructions  from  the  head-quarters  of 
the  Trans-Mississippi  Department,  the  undersigned  hereby 
assumes  command  of  the  division  of  Texas  troops  lately  com- 
manded by  Brig.-General  McCulloch. 

The  following  officers  are  announced  as  comprising  the 
Division  Staff. 

Signed,    JOHN  G.  WALKER, 

Major-General  Commanding. 

Major  R.  P.  McCLAY,  Chief  of  Staff. 

Major  A.  EL  MASON,  Commissary. 

Major  WILLIAM  M.  STONE,  Quartermaster. 

Major  THOMAS  B.  FRENCH,  Major  Artillery. 

Surgeon  E.  J.  BEALL. 

Surgeon  E.  L.  MASSIES. 

Captain  J,  A.  GALT,  Assist.  Adjutant-General. 

Captain  THOS.  Cox,  Assist.  Quartermaster. 

1st  Lieut.  COMPTON  FRENCH,  Aid-de-Camp. 

Captain  W.  A.  Smith,  Assist.  Adjutant-General. 

A.  FAULKINER,  Captain  commanding  Cavalry  Squadron. 

The  first  day  of  the  new  year'  opened  bitter  cold.  It  froze 
all  day.  In  commemoration  of  the  new  year  we  marched 
twelve  miles. 

Jan.  2d.  Marched  six  miles,  and  camped  within  four  miles 
of  Little  Rock.  "We  remained  at  this  camp  until  the  morn- 
ing of  the  5th,  when  we  were  ordered  about  face,  and  march- 
ed back  again  to  Pine  Bluff.  Marched  ten  miles  and 
camped. 

Jan.  6th.  Marched  fifteen  miles.  It  was  generally  believed 
amongst  the  troops  that  General  Holmes  was  advised  by  the 
Medical  Board  to  give  Walker's  Division  enough  of  exercise. 


68  WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 

This  may  be  the  object  of  our  marching  and  countermarch- 
ing between  Little  Bock  and  Pine  Bluff. 

Jan.  7th.  Marched  eight  miles. 

Jan.  8th.  Marched  twelve  miles  and  camped  five  miles  west 
of  Pine  Bluff.  "We  remained  at  this  camp  until  the  morning 
of  the  llth.  At  this  camp  the  division  was  formed  in  line  of 
battle  to  witness  three  soldiers  belonging  to  McCulloch's 
Brigade,  drummed  out  of  camp  for  "  hog-stealing."  The  bands 
played  "  The  Rogue's  March  "  along  the  line.  The  three  sol- 
diers marched  along  the  entire  line,  followed  by  a  file  of  soldiers, 
with  fixed  bayonets.  This  kind  of  punishment,  inaugurated 
by  General  McCulloch,  seemed  to  be  a  novelty  to  the  Texas 
boys,  and  it  created  roars  of  laughter  amongst  the  troops. 
Boys,  ask  yourselves  if  you  were  ever  guilty  of  "  hog-steal- 
ing "  during  the  late  unpleasantness  ? 

The  town  of  Pine  Bluff  is  the  county-seat  of  Jefferson 
County.  The  town  is  built  on  the  west  bank  of  the  Arkansas 
River,  situated  about  fifty  miles  south  of  Little  Bock,  in  the 
midst  of  a  fine  cotton-growing  country.  At  the  commence- 
ment of  the  war,  it  had  a  population  of  about  four  thousand 
inhabitants.  Some  of  the  residences  were  very  fine,  and  built 
of  brick.  Delightful  gardens,  tasteful  lawns,  and  spacious 
streets,  give  the  whole  place  an  air  of  comfort  and  elegance. 
The  river  was  navigable  to  this  place  at  all  seasons  of  the 
year. 

"While  encamped  near  Pine  Bluff,  we  learned  that  the 
enemy  had  been  badly  repulsed  at  Yicksburg;  and,  in  all 
probability,  part  of  their  forces  would  ascend  the  Arkansas 
River,  for  the  purpose  of  capturing  the  place.  On  the  night 
of  the  10th,  General  Wralker  received  dispatches  from  Gen- 
eral Churchill,  stating  that  eight  gunboats  and  twenty-five 
transports  had  arrived  near  the  Arkansas  Post,  and  he  ex- 
pected to  be  attacked  every  moment.  He  asked  for  reinforce- 
ments. 

On  the  morning  of  the  llth  we  took  up  the  line  of  march 
to  reinforce  General  Churchill's  command,  distance  about 
fifty-five  miles.  Passing  through  the  town  of  Pine  Bluff,  we 


WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  69 

continued  our  march  down  the  river-bank.  After  marching 
twenty-five  miles  we  camped  for  the  night.  During  the 
march,  couriers  bearing  dispatches  were  continually  passing 
to  and  fro  from  General  Walker  to  General  Churchill.  The 
following  dispatch  was  received  by  General  "Walker  from 
General  Churchill,  about  8  o'clock,  P.M. : 

Head- Quarters,  Arkansas  Post, 
JAN.  llth,  1863,  7.30  A.M.  , 
GENERAL  WALKER  : 

I  am  now  occupying  my  inner  line  of  intrenchments.  I 
have  strong  hopes  of  success.  If  I  am  not  overpowered  by 
numbers  shall  fight  to  the  last,  and  should  I  be  compelled  to 
leave  these  works  I  will  withraw  into  the  "  fort "  with  two 
thousand  men,  and  still  fight,  until  every  gun  is  dismounted. 
The  enemy  are  now  drawn  up  in  line  of  battle  in  front.  I 
expect  them  to  attack  me  every  moment.  My  infantry  has 
not  been  engaged.  The  enemy  has  a  great  deal  of  artillery. 
I  have  but  one  field-battery. 

T.  J.  CHURCHILL, 

Brig.-General  Commanding. 

The  next  dispatch  received  was  dated  ten  o'clock,  notifying 
General  Walker  that  the  infantry  pickets  were  engaged,  and 
that  he,  General  Churchill,  was  still  hopeful  of  holding  out 
until  reinforcements  arrived. 

At  daylight  on  the  morning  of  the  12th,  we  continued  the 
march  about  five  miles  in  the  direction  of  the  Post,  and 
camped  on  the  river-bank.  News  was  received  by  -General 
Walker  that  General  Churchill  had  surrendered,  with  all  his 
forces  (about  daylight).  General  Churchill's  command  con- 
sisted of  one  Brigade  of  Arkansians  and  Colonels  Deshler's 
and  Garland's  Brigade  of  Texans.  From  stragglers  who 
made  their  escape  from  the  Post,  it  was  learned  that,  after  a 
few  hours'  fighting,  a  white  flag  was  displayed  from  a  promi- 
nent point,  unexpected  to  General  Churchill  and  many  of  the 
troops  of  his  command,  as  they  were  confident  of  holding  the 


70  WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 

place  until  Walker's  Division  arrived.  Alas  !  the  traitor's 
name  is  screened  from  history  ;  but  enough  is  known  that  no 
private  soldier  had  anything  to  do  with  this  traitorous  act. 
Header,  pause  and  reflect  for  a  moment.  An  army  of  some 
six  or  seven  thousand  well-disciplined  troops,  strongly  forti- 
fied, with  plenty  of  provisions,  ammunition,  etc.,  surrender- 
ing after  a  few  hours'  fighting,  no  matter  how  great  the 
enemy's  strength  might  be,  when,  by  holding  out  a  few  hours 
longer,  sufficient  force  would  be  on  hand  to  render  them  as- 
sistance !  With  Hindman's  forces  on  the  left  bank  of  the 
river,  and  Walker's  on  the  west  bank,  the  enemy  would  evi- 
dently vacate  the  post,  and  take  shipping  on  their  boats, 
bound  for  some  other  point  outside  of  the  Arkansas  Post. 
We  remained  encamped  on  the  bank  of  the  river  until  the 
morning  of  the  19th,  awaiting  the  advance  of  the  enemy.  In 
the  mean  time,  General  Holmes  arrived  in  camp  from  Little 
Bock,  to  assume  command  in  person.  On  the  morning  of  the 
13th  we  awoke  out  of  our  slumbers  to  behold  the  ground 
covered  with  snow,  which  was  still  falling,  with  no  prospect 
of  its  clearing  away  soon.  During  the  day  all  our  tents  were 
taken  away  from  us.  This  camp  was  generally  known  by  the 
name  of  "  Camp  Freeze  Out." 

Tn  the  evening  it  commenced  to  freeze,  until  our  wet  gar- 
ments were  stiff.  The  cold  increased.  "  It  was  winter  in  its 
most  savage  mood.  The  wind  howled  like  a  wounded  mon- 
ster through  the  frozen  wood."  The  wide  waste  oj:  snow  and 
ice  concealed  the  treacherous  pits  and  fallen  timber  of  the 
forest  from  our  unpracticed  eyes.  We  expected  every  moment 
to  meet  the  enemy's  fleet  and  forces  ;  for  the  river,  swollen 
by  the  rain,  hurried  its  dark  flood  along  with  drift  and  foam, 
sweeping  masses  of  snow  from  the  banks,  and  seemed  con- 
spiring with  the  elements  to  hasten  his  advance.  But  the 
dark  flood  knew  better  the  secrets  of  fate. 

Jan.  14th.  To-day  six  prisoners,  escorted  by  Captain  Mor- 
gan's Company  of  Cavalry,  passed  through  the  camps  on  their 
way  to  Pine  Bluff.  They  were  captured  while  foraging  for 
some  delicacies  that  Uncle  Sam  didn't  furnish  them  with, 


WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  71 

From  them  we  learned  that,  after  the  surrender  of  the  Arkan- 
sas Post,  our  troops  were  put  aboard  transports  bound  for 
St.  Louis,  and  from  there  they  would  be  conveyed  to  Camp 
Douglas,  Illinois. 

On  the  morning  of  the  15th,  General  Holmes,  anticipating 
the  gun-boats  up  the  river,  backed  by  their  land  forces,  com- 
menced fortifying  some  two  miles  from  the  river  bank  (a 
pretty  safe  distance).  A  detail  of  twenty  men  from  each 
regiment  in  the  division  commenced  fortifying.  The  position 
selected  by  General  Holmes  was  a  pretty  secure  one,  for 
once  inside  of  the  fortification,  the  enemy  could  not  see  us 
from  the  river  bank,  nor  we  them. 

On  the  16th  it  commenced  snowing  at  noon-time  ;  by  sun- 
set some  four  or  five  inches  had  fallen.  During  the  night  it 
commenced  to  freeze,  which  was  pretty  severe  on  the  troops 
that  were  on  picket.  Picket  duty  is  the  most  dangerous  and 
least  cheering  part  of  the  service.  It  has  not  the  excitement 
of  battle,  the  presence  of  comrades,  the  charge,  the  cheer  of 
the  wild  huzza  of  victory  and  triumph ;  it  has  no  such 
stimulating  influences.  No  matter  how  cold  the  weather  may 
be,  even  in  the  depth  of  winter,  the  advanced  pickets  are  not 
allowed  fire,  and  dare  not  walk  about  to  warm  themselves. 

The  morning  of  the  17th  dawned  with  the  elements  still 
against  us.  Worse  than  ever,  it  commenced  to  rain  in  the 
morning ;  at  noon  it  ceased  for  a  short  period  of  time ;  it 
then  commenced  to  snow,  and  during  the  evening  it  com- 
menced to  freeze,  with  the  wind  blowing  from  the  north. 
Parsons'  Brigade  of  Cavalry  arrived  in  camp  :  they  relieved 
the  infantry  pickets  from  duty  for  the  time  being.  During 
the  night  we  learned  that  the  enemy's  fleet  had  withdrawn 
from  the  Arkansas  Post,  and  were  on  their  way  to  the  Mis- 
sissippi River.  On  the  evening  of  the  18th  we  received 
orders  to  be  ready  the  following  morning,  to  take  up  the  line 
of  march  back  again  to  Pine  Bluff. 


72  WALKEK'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 


CHAPTEE  VIII. 

BIOGRAPHICAL  SKETCH  OF  GENERAL  WALKER. 

& 

1 

^AJOR-GENERAL  John  G.  Walker,  was  born  in 
Cole  County,  State  of  Missouri,  in  the  year  1825. 
His  father,  the  Hon.  J.  G.  Walker,  was  State 
Treasurer  for  many  years.  At  the  age  of  twenty-one  years, 
he  was  appointed  by  President  Polk  1st  lieutenant  of  Com- 
pany K,  Colonel  Persifer  F.  Smith's  regiment  of  mounted 
rifles,  in  which  he  bore  his  part  in  the  campaigns  of  Mexico. 
Afterward  he  served  with  the  same  command  in  California, 
Arizona,  New  Mexico,  and  Oregon,  having  attained  the  rank 
of  Captain  in  the  United  States  service.  At  the  beginning  of 
the  late  war  he  was  on  duty  at  Fort  Union,  New  Mexico,  and 
his  affections  being  with  the  South,  he  lost  no  time  in  resign- 
ing his  Federal  commission  and  making  his  way  to  the  Con- 
federate seat  of  government.  On  tendering  his  services  to 
President  Jefferson  Davis,  he  received  the  commission  of 
Colonel,  and  as  such  commanded  the  2d  Begiment  of  Virginia 
troops  in  the  army  of  General  Beauregard,  then  in  Yirginia. 
He  was  shortly  afterward  promoted  to  the  rank  of  Brigadier, 
and  distinguished  himself  in  the  bloody  battles  of  that  State, 
and  was  in  due  time  made  a  Major-General.  While  in  com- 
mand of  a  division  in  Lee's  army,  he  took  a  prominent  part 
in  the  capture  of  Harper's  Ferry,  and  the  next  day  reached 
the  field  of  Sharpsburg,  just  in  time  to  save  the  fortunes  of 
that  battle.  President  Davis,  on  hearing  of  the  number  of 
Texas  troops  that  had  arrived  at  Little  Rock,  Arkansas,  sub- 
sequently ordered  General  Walker  to  Little  Bock,  to  take 
command  of  the  Texas  troops  at  that  point,  then  commanded 
by  Brigadier- General  H.  E.  McCulloch. 

General  Walker,  after  taking  command  of  the  Texas  troops, 
soon  became  very  popular  with  them — his  presence  was 
always  hailed  with'  the  wildest  enthusiasm  by  both  officers 


WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  73 

and  soldiers.  His  masterly  retreat  before  Banks'  army,  and 
his  gallant  and  desperate  charge  at  Mansfield  and  Pleasant 
Hill,  where  he  was  seriously  wounded,  evince  his  capacity 
and  bravery  as  a  commander. 

Notwithstanding  his  sufferings  from  his  wound,  he  begged 
to  be  carried  on  a  litter  to  command  his  men. 

He  gave  us  our  first  lesson  in  the  field  in  the  face  of  an 
enemy,  and  of  all  the  generals  in  command  of  the  Confederate 
troops,  he  was  the  most  untiring,  vigilant,  and  patient.  No 
commander  could  surpass  him.  Devoid  of  ambition,  incapa- 
ble of  envy,  he  was  brave,  gallant,  and  just.  At  Jenkins' 
Ferry  he  arrived  just  as  the  battle  commenced,  although  in  a 
feeble  state,  suffering  from  his  wound.  At  the  sight  of  him, 
many  of  the  troops  were  so  enthusiastic  that  they  placed  their 
hats  upon  their  bayonets,  and  gave  him  hearty  cheers.  It  was 
a  touching  and  fitting  compliment  to  the  gallant  chieftain. 

Nor  did  he  escape  the  attention  of  the  department  com- 
mander, for  his  gallantry  and  services  on  the  battle-field.  He 
was  assigned  to  the  command  of  the  District  of  Louisiana, 
and  afterward  to  the  command  of  the  Department  of  Texas, 
New  Mexico,  and  Arizona,  a  position  he  filled  with  honor  to 
himself  and  the  department  he  commanded. 

I  deem  it  proper  to  copy  from  the  Houston  Telegraph  news- 
paper the  appropriate  remarks  relating  to  the  discharge  of  his 
duties  while  in  command  of  the  department,  as  follows : 

"  The  administration  of  the  duties  of  the  commander  of  this 
district  by  Major-General  Walker  have  added  to  the  high  repu- 
tation of  that  gallant  officer.  As  a  commander  in  the  field,  he 
had  won  the  best  distinction  of  a  soldier,  that  of  well-fought 
battles,  honorable  wounds,  and  the  confidence  and  devotion  of 
his  soldiers.  We  have  never  heard  an  officer  or  private  from 
General  Walker's  old  Division  but  spoke  of  him  in  terms  of 
admiration  and  attachment.  Accustomed  to  and  preferring 
service  in  the  field,  we  understand  it  was  in  opposition  to  his 
own  feelings  and  taste  that  General  Walker  entered  on  the 
command  of  a  district  so  extensive,  important,  and,  responsi- 
ble as  this. 

"  We  believe  that  he  leaves  it  having  impressed;  all  who  have 


74  WALKEK'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 

had  any  opportunity  of  seeing  him  in  the  exercise  of  his  duties, 
with  the  conviction  of  his  ability,  his  conscientious  devotion 
to  duty,  and  the  equity  and  justice  of  his  character. 

"  Laborious,  systematic,  painstaking,  unostentatious — work- 
ing himself  according  to  a  rigid  standard  of  duty,  and  exact- 
ing the  like  from  others,  confidence  had  gathered  strongly 
around  the  sound  judgment  and  propriety  of  his  general  busi- 
ness administration  of  our  military  affairs.  We  are  very  sure 
he  will  carry  with  him,  we  hope  to  more  honorable  fields,  the 
sincere  respect  and  confidence,  and  the  warm  good  wishes  of 
the  people  of  Texas." 

General  Walker,  in  giving  up  the  command  of  the  district, 
was  assigned  to  the  command  of  a  cavalry  corps  that  was  en- 
camped near  Hempstead.  In  taking  command  of  the  cavalry, 
he  issued  the  following  masterly  and  patriotic  address,  al- 
though forlorn,  and  while  negotiations  were  pending  for  the 
surrender  of  the  Trans-Mississippi  Department : 

"  Soldiers  :  In  assuming  command  in  the  field  at  this  dark 
hour  in  the  history  of  the  war,  I  confidently  appeal  to  your 
patriotism  to  sustain  me  in  the  discharge  of  the  responsible 
duties  I  have  assumed.  The  disastrous  events,  the  intelligence 
which  has  just  reached  us,  point  to  some  decisive  crisis  of  the 
war,  which  our  limited  knowledge  of  those  events  does  not 
yet  permit  us  fully  to  appreciate. 

"  Every  instinct  of  manhood,  however,  calls  upon  us  to  bear 
the  great  disaster  that  has  overtaken  our  arms  with  fortitude, 
resolution,  and  patriotism.  Let  us  so  conduct  ourselves  that, 
whatever  may  be  the  result  of  this  war,  we  may  be  able 
to  point  with  honorable  pride  to  the  part  we  have  sustained 
in  upholding  the  honor  of  the  South. 

"We  cannot  yet  determine  what  line  of  policy  it  may 
become  necessary  for  the  Trans-Mississippi  army  and  people 
to  pursue  in  view  of  recent  events,  but  let  us  bear  in  mind  that 
nothing  but  eternal  infamy,  individually  and  nationally,  will 
result  from  abandoning  the  field  at  present.  Kemember,  be 
itrue  to  your  duty !  Stand  by  your  colors  and  your  generals, 
and  treat  those  who  advise  differently  as  your  worst  enemies, 
,and  itraitors  to  your  country. 


WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  75 


CHAPTEE  IX. 

RETURN  TO  PINE  BLUFF. — CAMP  MILLS  AND  CAMP  WRIGHT. — DESCRIPTION 
OF  CAMP  WRIGHT. — CARD  PLAYING. — GENERAL  HAWS  ASSUMES  COM- 
MAND OF  THE  1ST  BRIGADE. — MARCHING  ORDERS.— GENERAL  HOLMES* 
FAREWELL  ADDRESS  TO  THE  DIVISION. 

the  morning  of  January  19th  we  bade  adieu  to 
Camp  "  Freeze  Out,'  and  took  up  the  line  of  march 
back  again  to  Pine  Bluff.  The  road  being  im- 
passable to  travel,  we  marched  through  the  deserted  planta- 
tions, weary,  foot-sore,  hungry,  and  cold.  Yet,  the  troops 
marched  with  buoyant  spirits,  joking,  laughing,  and  singing  as 
they  marched  along.  After  marching  twelve  miles,  we  arrived 
at  camp. 

Jan.  20.  Marched  fourteen  miles.  The  troops  continued  to 
travel  through  mud,  ankle  deep ;  yet,  cold  and  drenched  as 
they  were,  they  marched  cheerfully  forward,  shouting  forth, 
with  stentorian  voices,  the  chorus  of  the  "  Bonnie  Blue  Flag," 
and  other  patriotic  songs.  It  seemed  as  if  they  were  deter- 
mined their  spirits  should  not  succumb  to  their  accumulated 
sufferings,  hardships,  and  trials.  It  appears  almost  incredible 
that  men  could  exhibit  such  reckless  indifference,  such  strength 
of  will  and  determination,  after  such  a  week  of  bitter  expe- 
riences as  these  men  underwent.  The  war,  however,  developed 
and  decided  some  strange  theories  as  to  the  amount  of  physi- 
cal powers  which  the  human  frame  contained — powers  of 
enduring  fatigue,  hunger,  thirst,  heat  and  cold — which  would 
scarcely  have  been  believed  before,  if  asserted.  We  arrived  at 
camp,  situated  northwest  from  Pine  Bluff.  This  camp  was 
known  by  the  name  of  Camp  Mills,  after  Colonel  E.  Q.  Mills, 
of  the  10th  Infantry.  He  was  captured  at  the  Arkansas  Post. 
We  remained  at  this  camp  until  the  9th  of  February,  drill- 


76  WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 

/ 
ing  and  cleaning  our  camp-ground.     General  Walker  issued 

orders  that  two  men  from  each  company  in  the  division  should 
be  granted  furloughs  for  a  reasonable  perioti  of  time.  This 
order  gave  general  satisfaction  throughout  the  division.  In  the 
mean  time,  while  remaining  at  this  camp,  the  weather  changed 
to  bright,  clear,  and  pleasant  days.  Tents  sufficient  to  shelter, 
and  blankets  to  make  the  troops  comfortable,  soon  arrived, 
when  we  were  ordered  to  move  camp  to  a  more  suitable  loca- 
tion, on  the  banks  of  the  Arkansas  River,  about  four  miles 
north  of  the  town  of  Pine  Bluff.  Our  camp  at  this  location 
was  known  as  Camp  Wright,  receiving  the  name  from  the 
owner  of  the  land  that  it  was  located  on. 

Our  situation  here  was  a  good  one,  and,  for  the  first  time 
since  we  had  been  in  the  State,  the  troops  were  comfortably 
situated.  And  they  appreciated  it  very  much ;  for,  if  ever 
there  was  an  army  that  had  been  harassed  and  "  used  up"  to 
accomplish  nothing  so  far,  it  was  this  army.  At  this  camp, 
it  was  an  imposing  sight  to  see  a  long  stretch  of  country,  rich 
and  beautiful  as  the  sun  ever  shone  upon  ;  the  deep  pine 
forests ;  belts  of  wood,  whose  dark  green  foliage  contrasted 
strongly  with  the  white  tents.  Fields  lately  luscious  with  vines 
are  drooping  with  amber-colored  corn,  all  of  them  covered 
over  wifh  white  tents,  arranged  with  street-like  precision,  with 
regiments  or  battalions  on  parade  or  review,  with  martial 
music  echoing  along  the  river-bank,  from  splendid  bands. 
Add  to  this  the  Arkansas  Biver,  flowing  on  in  majestic  grand- 
eur, on  its  bosom  numerous  transports  steaming  up  and  down. 
Such  was  our  encampment  at  Camp  Wright. 

The  nights  were  surpassingly  fine,  considering  the  season  of 
the  year.  No  fairy  tales  of  magic  wonder,  no  genii  power  of 
Aladdin's  wonderful  lamp  could  produce  anything  so  sublimely 
grand.  Here,  in  the  southern  clime,  the  nights  are  superb. 
The  moon  floats  grandly  through  a  clear,  azure  sky  of  the 
deepest  blue.  The  white  tents  glow,  and  the  bright  arms 
stacked  on  the  parade-ground,  glimmer  in  the  moonshine, 
while  the  river  looks  like  a  sea  of  molten  silver,  quivering  under 
the  soft  moon-beams.  In  this  fair  and  fertile  land,  marred  by 


WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  77 

man  but  blessed  by  God,  the  days  and  nights  passed  merrily. 
At  night  the  tents  resounded  with  laughter,  music,  and  fun  ; 
by  day,  the  leisure  hours  were  spent  in  visiting  each  other,  or 
playing  the  fascinating  game  of  "  bluff."  When  the  cry  of 
"lights  out!"  ran  from  mouth  to  mouth  along  the  line  of  sen- 
tinels, the  camp  became  shrouded  in  darkness ;  but  suppose 
we  step  into  a  tent,  and  see  if  the  lights  are  really  "out." 
Lifting  the  "fly,"  upon  the  inside  of  which  a  blanket  is  pinned, 

we  enter.   Sergeant and  privates  *  *  *  and  000  (whom 

many  of  our  readers  would  recognize  without  the  aid  of  a 
magnifier),  and  others  are  seated  comfortably  upon  a  blanket, 
each  mouth  adorned  with  a  pipe  from  which  clouds  of  smoke 
are  emanating,  while  their  minds  are  all  intent  upon  the  cards 
before  them.  The  light  is  well  shaded,  so  as  to  be  invisible 
on  the  outside,  and  the  game  goes  on  under  the  whispers  of  the 
players.  Corn  grains  are  spread  around,  each  representing  a 
specific  amount,  not  greater  than  a  dollar. 

From  the  players,  who  are  steeped  in  tobacco-smoke,  we 
catch  the  sentences :  "  I'll  raise  you  two."  "  I'll  go  five 
better."  "  Can't  see  it."  "  Three  queens,"  etc.,  etc.,  etc. 
Thus  was  the  game  of  "  Bluff"  often  played  in  our  camp,  and 
seldom  was  it  finished  until  the  early  morning  reveille  startled 
the  players  from  their  sport.  While  remaining  at  this  camp, 
many  of  the  troops  received  sixty  days'  furlough,  and  re- 
nounced camp-life  pro  tern.,  to  visit  distant  friends  in  Texas. 
We  remained  at  "Camp  Wright"  until  the  24th  of  April,  with- 
out anything  unusual  transpiring,  with  the  exception  of  the  ap- 
pointment of  Brigadier-General  Haws  to  the  command  of  the 
1st  Brigade.  Colonel  Young,  on  being  relieved  from  com- 
mand of  the  brigade,  resumed  command  of  his  regiment.  The 
following-named  officers  comprised  General  Haws'  staff,  viz : 

Major  C.  MCCLARTY,  A.  A.  General. 

Major  R.  H.  DYER,  Quartermaster. 

Major  R.  S.  SEMAN,  Commissary  of  Subsistence. 

Captain  J.  L.  ROBERTSON,  Adjt.  and  Inspector- General. 

1st  Lieut.  A.  J.  WALKER.  '  Ordnance  Officer. 

1st  Lieut.  S.  N.  HAWS,  Aid-de-Camp. 


78  WALKEB'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 

Brigadier-General  Haws  was  formerly  a  United  States  offi- 
cer, but,  like  many  of  his  old  comrades  in  arms,  lie  offered  liis 
services  to  the  Confederate  government,  which  were  cheerfully 
accepted.  He  was  commissioned  by  President  Davis  to  the  rank 
of  Brigadier-General,  and  assigned  to  a  brigade  of  cavalry 
under  command  of  Major-General  Hindman.  He  participated 
in  many  of  the  cavalry  raids  throughout  Arkansas.  He  arrived 
in  time  to  lend  his  aid  to  Walker's  division,  in  the  anticipated 
attack  of  the  enemy,  near  the  Arkansas  Post,  with  his  command 
of  cavalry. 

On  the  evening  of  April  23d,  at  dress-parade,  the  following 
address  or  order  from  General  Holmes  was  read  to  each 
regiment  in  the  division  previous  to  our  departure  for  Louisi- 
ana. 

"  Major-General  J.  G.  Walker  will  proceed  with  his  division 
without  delay  to  Monroe,  Louisiana.  On  his  arrival  he  will 
report  for  orders  to  Lieut. -General  Kirby  Smith,  commanding 
the  department. 

"  In  taking  leave  of  Walker's  Division,  the  commanding 
general  of  the  district  expresses  his  sincere  regret.  It  was 
instructed  and  disciplined  under  his  supervision  ;  and,  hav- 
ing the  fullest  confidence  in  its  strength,  patriotism  and 
valor,  he  hoped  it  would  be  his  proud  privilege  to  participate 
in  the  honor  in  store  for  it  when  it  meets  the  enemy.  Better 
officers  and  men  no  division  can  boast  of..  The  Confederacy 
may  well  be  satisfied  with  the  security  of  its  interests  entrust- 
ed to  them. 

By  command  of  Lieut. -General  HOLMES." 


WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  79 


CHAPTEK  X. 

THE  DIVISION  MOTES  TO  LOUISIANA.  —  ARRIVAL  AT  OUACHITA  CITY.— 
A  NEW  MODE  OF  TRAVELING.  —  EXCURSION  TRIP  ON  THE  WASHITA 
RIVER.  —  OVERLAND  ROUTE  TO  ALEXANDRIA.  —  A  FREE  RIDE.  —  DESCRIP- 
TION OF  ALEXANDRIA. 


'HE  morning  of  April  24th  was  clear  and  beautiful, 
such  as  we  often  experience  in  the  spring.  We  left 
camp  at  daylight,  bound  for  Alexandria,  Louisiana. 
Keports  had  reached  us  from  Louisiana,  that  General  Dick 
Taylor  was  retreating  from  before  the  enemy,  who  was  advan- 
cing on  Alexandria.  Marched  fourteen  miles,  and  camped. 

April  25th.  Marched  ten  miles.  The  country  we  traveled 
over  resembles  the  lands  of  Northeastern  Texas.  The  soil  is 
very  fertile,  and  produces  large  crops  of  corn,  oats,  and  wheat. 

April  26th.  Marched  fifteen  miles.  The  country  we  marched 
over  was  thickly  settled. 

April  27th.  Marched  twelve  miles,  and  camped  near  the 
town  of  Monticello. 

April  28th.  Marched  twelve  miles.  As  we  passed  through 
Monticello,  the  ladies  were  on  the  sidewalk,  waving  their 
handkerchiefs  as  a  token  of  admiration  for  the  Texas  boys. 

April  29th.  Marched  eleven  miles  ;  passed  through  the  villa- 
ges of  Lacy  and  Fountain  Hill. 

April  30th.  Marched  ten  miles,  and  encamped  near  the  town 
of  Hamburg.  On  the  morning  of  May  1st  we  continued 
our  march.  After  crossing  the  State  line  dividing  Arkansas 
from  Louisiana,  we  camped  in  the  midst  of  a  small  prairie, 
having  marched  only  three  miles. 

May  2d.  Early  in  the  morning  we  continued  our  march, 
traveling  in  a  southwesterly  direction.  The  day  was  excess- 
ively warm,  and  water  along  our  route  was  very  scarce. 


80  WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 

After  a  hard  and  laborious  march,  of  sixteen  miles,  we  arrived 
at  a  running  stream  of  cle-ar  water,  where  we  camped  for  the 
night. 

May  3d.  Marched  sixteen  miles,  and  camped  on  Bayou 
Bartholomew,  a  tributary  of  the  Ouachita  River. 

May  4th.  Marched  twelve  miles,  down  the  bank  of  the 
bayou,  and  camped  about  three  miles  from  Ouachita  City. 

May  5th.  Marched  three  miles,  and  arrived  at  the  mouth  of 
Bayou  Bartholomew,  where  it  empties  into  the  Ouachita 
River.  Opposite  the  mouth  of  Bayou  Bartholomew  is  located 
the  famous  City  of  Ouachita  (or  Washita),  consisting  of  a 
store  and  warehouse.  It  is  situated  on  a  high  bluff.  The  river 
is  navigable  to  this  point  at  all  seasons  of  the  year.  On  our 
arrival  at  the  mouth  of  the  bayou,  we  witnessed  about  a 
dozen  transports  awaiting  to  carry  us  to  the  town  of  Tren- 
ton, nearly  opposite  the  City  of  Monroe.  After  everything 
was  in  readiness  we  got  aboard  ;  shortly  afterwards,  we  found 
ourselves  rapidly  steaming  down  the  crystal-like  Washita 
river,  at  the  expense  of  the  government.  This  ride  on  the 
transports  was  unexpected  on  our  part.  We  arrived  at  Tren- 
ton about  4  o'clock,  P.  M.,  distant  from  Bayou  Bartholomew 
about  thirty-six  miles.  Our  division  quartermaster  kindly 
paid  our  fare  by  giving  a  check  on  the  Confederate  Govern- 
ment.  After  disembarking  at  Trenton,  we  marched  two  miles, 
and  camped  in  the  rear  of  the  town.  We  remained  at  this 
camp  until  the  morning  of  the  9th.  While  encamped  near 
Trenton,  various  rumors  were  currently  afloat  in  camp 
about  Banks'  army  advancing  on  the  town  of  Alexandria, 
and  the  capture  of  the  same.  These  rumors  proved,  alas !  too 
true.  We  waited  anxiously  to  hear  from  our  army  under  the 
command  of  General  Dick  Taylor — how  they  were  progressing 
with  the  enemy.  General  Hebert,  then  commanding  the 
Northern  District  of  Louisiana,  endeavored  to  obtain  a 
brigade  of  the  division,  to  assist  him  in  driving  back,  or  rather 
to  capture,  a  brigade  of  the  enemy  that  was  encamped  on  the 
banks  of  the  Mississippi  Eiver,  making  raids  all  over  the 
country.  As  General  Walker's  orders  were  imperative  to 


WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  81 

proceed  to  Alexandria,  he  could  not  accommodate  General 
Hebert,  but  promised  to  do  so  as  soon  he  drove  Banks'  army 
back.  The  sequel  will  show  how  he  fulfilled  his  promise. 

May  9th.  About  sunrise  we  embarked  on  board  of  the  same 
transports  that  conveyed  us  from  Washita  City ;  our  destina- 
tion this  time  was  Alexandria.  Our  wagons  the  day  previous 
went  overland.  About  8  o'clock,  A.  M.,  the  signal  whistle 
was  blown  for  "all  aboard,"  Shortly  afterwards,  the  boats 
moved  out  into  the  current  of  the  river,  and  took  their  position 
in  line, — General  "Walker's  boat  taking  the  lead,  under  a  full 
head  of  steam.  When  passing  by  the  town  of  Monroe,  the 
inhabitants  appeared  to  have  turned  out  in  mass  to  witness 
us  passing  by.  The  ladies  waved  their  handkerchiefs  as  a 
token  of  friendship,  and  the  bands  played  some  of  their  favor- 
ite pieces  of  music,  to  please  the  ladies. 

The  troops  were  highly  pleased  with  the  trip ;  they  experi- 
enced that  it  was  a  much  easier  mode  of  travel  than  taking  it 
afoot,  with  their  knapsacks  on  their  backs.  Nothing  worthy 
of  notice  transpired  on  our  trip  down  the  river,  until  we  were 
near  the  town  of  Harrisonburg,  when  a  courier,  from  General 
Dick  Taylor's  head-quarters,  hailed  General  Walker,  and 
handed  him  a  dispatch  informing  him  that  the  enemy  had 
crossed  Red.  River  at  Alexandria,  and  were  likely  to  attack 
Fort  Beauregard  at  Harrisonburg  in  the  rear ;  and  that  four 
gunboats  had  left  Alexandria  for  the  purpose  of  making  an 
attack  by  water.  He  sent  a  dispatch  to  Colonel  Logan,  com- 
manding the  fort,  to  burn  his  last  cartridge  in  its  defence. 
Colonel  Logan  replied  that  he  had  as  much  force  as  he  want- 
ed, and  that  he  would  hold  the  fort  with  "  God's  blessing." 

General  Walker  at  once  ordered  his  boats  to  "about  ship  " 
on  hearing  the  news  from  Colonel  Logan.  So  we  took  the 
back  track  once  more  for  Trenton,  where  we  arrived  about  3 
o'clock  the  next  morning,  after  an  excursion  of  one  hun- 
dred and  twenty-five  miles.  We  remained  on  board  until 
daylight,  when  we  went  ashore,  and  camped  four  miles  west 
of  the  town,  where  we  remained  until  the  morning  of  the  16th, 
waiting  to  hear  further  news  from  the  enemy.  If  they  sue- 


82  WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 

ceeded  in  capturing  Fort  Beauregard,  it  was  expected  they 
would  advance  on  the  town  of  Monroe  or  Trenton.  General 
Walker,  in  the  mean  time,  kept  his  communication  open  with 
Colonel  Logan. 

On  the  morning  of  the  13th,  four  gun-boats,  under  command 
of  Commodore  Woodworth,  arrived  about  two  miles  below  the 
fort,  and  demanded  the  surrender  of  the  same.  Colonel 
Logan  replied,  that  as  long  as  he  had  a  cartridge  left,  his  com- 
mand would  never  surrender.  Shortly  after  the  "  truce  "  had 
expired,  the  gun-boats  commenced  shelling  the  fort  with  a  ven- 
geance, and  kept  up  the  cannonading  until  late  in  the  evening, 
without  doing  any  damage  to  the  fort  or  garrison.  The  next 
morning  they  opened  their  fire  again.  Colonel  Logan  and 
his  garrison  were  not  idle.  During  the  night,  he  sent  a  com- 
pany of  sharpshooters  in  the  vicinity  of  the  gun-boats,  for 
the  purpose  of  picking  off  their  gunners.  In  this  they  were 
very  successful,  as  they  compelled  the  gun-boats  to  withdraw 
some  distance  down  the  river,  from  their  original  position. 
The  cannonading  continued  throughout  the  day,  without 
doing  much  damage.  About  sunset  two  dispatch-boats  of  the 
enemy  joined  the  fleet,  after  communicating  with  Commo- 
dore Woodworth.  The  gun-boats  shortly  afterwards  retired, 
as,  for  the  present,  they  had  abandoned  any  further  attack 
on  the  fort. 

Before  retiring,  they  buried  six  of  their  men  on  the  river- 
bank.  As  they  were  descending  the  river,  they  continued 
throwing  up  signal  rockets.  Quantities  of  cotton  and  broken 
timber,  evidently  torn  off  by  our  shot  and  shell,  floated  down 
the  river  in  their  wake.  Thus,  with  a  very  small  force,  Colo- 
nel Logan  had  accomplished  his  design  in  compelling  the 
enemy  to  withdraw,  notwithstanding  their  guns  were  of  a 
heavier  caliber  than  his,  and  with  only  the  loss  of  one  of  his 
men,  who  was  killed  early  in  the  action. 

During  the  bombardment  of  the  fort,  General  Walker 
received  a  dispatch  from  Colonel  Bartlett,  commanding  at 
Delhi,  that  the  enemy,  numbering  about  1,000,  had  crossed 
Bayou  Macon,  and  were  advancing  on  Monroe.  This  news, 


WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  83 

and  the  delay  of  our  wagon-train,  retarded  our  march  in  any 
direction  in  pursuit  of  the  enemy.  In  the  mean  time,  news 
was  received  that  the  enemy  had  recrossed  Bayou  Macon, 
and,  for  the  present,  had  abandoned  their  raid  on  Mon- 
roe. Our  wagon-train  having  arrived,  we  took  up  the  line  of 
march  on  the  morning  of  the  16th,  for  the  town  of  Campti, 
on  Eed  Eiver.  Marched  seventeen  miles,  and  camped  for  the 
night. 

May  17th.  Kesumed  our  march  this  morning,  and  marched 
fourteen  miles.  Passed  through  the  town  of  Vernon. 

May  18th.  Marched  fifteen  miles,  and  passed  through  the 
village  of  Woodville. 

May  19th.  Marched  nineteen  miles.  The  country  we 
passed  over  is  of  light,  rich  soil,  rolling  enough  to  make  it 
fine  for  cultivation,  and  is  covered  with  timber  of  the  largest 
kind,  which  extends  from  the  Washita  to  Ked  Eiver.  Grain 
is  raised  in  abundance,  consisting  of  corn,  oats,  barley,  and 
wheat. 

May  20th.  Marched  nineteen  miles.  Passed  through  the 
town  of  Sparta,  situated  on  top  of  a  sand-hill. 

May  21st.  Marched  seventeen  miles  through  a  pine  forest. 

May  22d.  Marched  sixteen  miles,  and  encamped  at  a  large 
lake,  two  miles  to  the  right  of  the  town  of  Campti.  On  our  arri- 
val at  this  place,  we  learned  that  Banks'  army,  hearing  of  our 
approach,  had  evacuated  the  town  of  Alexandria,  and  was 
falling  back  towards  the  Mississippi  Eiver.  "We  remained 
encamped  at  the  lake,  awaiting  boats  to  carry  us  to  Alexan- 
dria, until  the  morning  of  the  26th,  when  we  marched  to 
Campti,  there  to  take  passage  on  the  boats  that  had  arrived 
during  the  night,  for  Alexandria. 

Nothing  worthy  of  notice  transpired  on  our  trip  down  the 
river.  We  arrived  at  the  Alexandria  Falls,  about  two  miles 
from  the  town  of  Alexandria,  on  the  morning  of  the  27th. 
The  distance  from  Campti  t6  this  point  is  150  miles.  Ean- 
dall's  Brigade  continued  down  the  river,  expecting  to  over- 
take the  enemy  before  they  got  to  the  Mississippi  Eiver.  In 
this  they  were  unsuccessful.  They  returned  the  following  day 


84  WALKEB'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 

* 

to  camp,  near  Alexandria.  After  ascertaining  that  the 
enemy  had  crossed  the  Mississippi  River,  on  their  way  to 
attack  Port  Hudson,  we  remained  encamped  near  the  Falls 
of  Alexandria,  for  the  purpose  of  cooking  rations,  previous  to 
taking  a  trip  to  Perkins'  Landing,  on  the  Mississippi  River. 
The  town  of  Alexandria  is  built  on  the  right  bank  of  Red 
River,  about  200  miles  from  its  mouth.  The  river  is  navi- 
gable to  this  point  at  all  seasons  of  the  year.  The  town  is  beau- 
tifully located  in  the  midst  of  a  cotton  and  sugar-cane  country. 
It  is  unrivaled,  in  the  State  of  Louisiana,  for  its  healthy  and 
pleasant  situation,  and  the  grandeur  of  the  surrounding 
scenery.  Its  principal  street,  about  one  mile  in  length,  is 
built  on  the  bank  of  the  river,  and,  parallel  to  this  street  and 
river  is  located  the  Planters'  Railroad,  running  through  the 
town,  and  extending  south  a  distance  of  about  twenty-five  miles. 
The  sidewalks  are  thickly  covered  with  stately  shade-trees, 
overlapping  themselves  in  many  places.  Opposite,  and  across 
the  river,  is  one  range  of  pine  hills.  Another  lies  about 
twelve  miles  southwest  from  the  town.  It  seems  of  an  irreg- 
ular formation,  and  extends  to  the  Sabine  River,  on  the  border 
of  Texas. 

Picturesque  views,  of  great  beauty,  are  obtained  from  the 
surrounding  hills.  At  a  distance  of  two  miles  up  the  river 
are  situated  the  rapids  of  Alexandria  (better  known  as 
Alexandria  Falls).  These  rapids  or  falls  have  become  histor- 
ical, from  the  fact  of  Commodore  Porter's  building  a  dam 
across  them,  in  the  year  1864,  in  order  to  enable  him  to  get 
his  fleet  over  them,  on  his  cotton  expedition  up  Red  River. 

The  town  of  Alexandria  has  several  fine  public  and  private 
buildings;  among  the  most  noted  is  the  Ice-house  Hotel; 
also  the  Court-house  and  Market-house.  The  town  is  also 
adorned  with  many  fine  churches,  of  all  denominations. 
Across  the  river,  about  four  miles  from  the  town,  stands  the 
famous  Military  Institute ,  that  General  Sherman  presided 
over  at  the  commencement  of  the  war. 


WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  85 


CHAPTEK    XI. 

EXPEDITION     UP    THE     TENSAS    RIVER. — A    NIGHT    MARCH    TO    PERKINS 

LANDING. 

the  evening  of  May  28th  we  left  camp  near  Alex- 
andria for  Little  Eiver,  distance  about  twenty  miles. 
Marched  ten  miles  through  a  pine  and  hilly  section 
of  country. 

May  29th.  Marched  ten  miles  and  arrived  at  Little  Eiver ; 
here  several  transports  were  waiting  to  carry  us  up  the  Ten- 
sas  Eiver.  Previous  to  going  aboard  of  them,  we  cooked  two 
days'  rations.  It  would  shame  a  lazy  cook  to  see  with  what 
expedition  we  cooked  our  meals.  The  moment  we  stacked 
arms,  fires  were  lit  of  rails  or  branches,  and  the  knapsacks 
thrown  off.  Then  we  took  a  slice  of  bacon  or  a  piece  of  beef, 
and  roasted  it  before  the  fire  on  the  end  of  a  stick.  In  this 
way  a  soldier  cooked  his  hasty  meal  in  about  fifteen  minutes. 
About  two  o'clock  we  were  all  aboard ;  lines  and  stage-planks 
were  hauled  in. 

The  boat  that  General  Walker  and  staff  were  aboard  of  led 
off,  followed  by  the  balance  of  the  transports,  all  loaded  with 
troops.  On  they  went,  ploughing  through  the  waters  of 
Cathoulia  Lake.  Nothing  unusual  occurred  during  the  trip. 
We  arrived  at  the  mouth  of  Black  Eiver  during  the  night, 
ascending  the  same  until  we  arrived  at  the  mouth  of  the 
Tensas  Eiver.  Previous  to  ascending  the  same,  the  utmost 
caution  for  the  safety  of  the  troops  was  adopted  by  General 
Walker.  To  prevent  a  surprise  from  the  enemy,  sentinels 
were  placed  upon  the  hurricane  deck  of  all  the  transports  to 
keep  watch,  lest  the  enemy  should  be  lurking  about.  We 
were  only  twenty-five  miles  from  the  Mississippi  Eiver.  The 


86  WALKEB'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 

country  between  the  two  rivers  was  invested  with  the  enemy's 
pickets.  On  our  way  up  the  river,  a  Federal  soldier  was 
taken  prisoner ;  he  was  foraging  amongst  the  negro  cabins. 
A  few  miles  further  up  the  river,  from  where  we  captured  the 
Federal  soldier,  is  Buck's  plantation,  the  head  of  navigation. 
We  arrived  at  this  place  on  the  evening  of  the  30th  inst. 
The  distance  from  Little  River  to  this  point  is  about  250 
miles.  We  went  ashore  on  the  right  bank  of  the  river,  and 
camped.  After  supper  we  received  orders  to  be  ready  to 
march  at  a  moment's  notice. 

At  9  o'clock,  P.  M.,  McCulloch's  Brigade  took  up  the  line  of 
march  for  Perkins'  Landing,  on  the  Mississippi  River.  This 
landing  is  near  the  town  of  New  Carthage,  and  about  fifteen 
miles  from  Yicksburg,  and  distant  about  twelve  miles  from 
Buck's  plantation.  Eandall  and  Haws'  Brigades  followed 
after.  At  this  place  the  enemy  was  encamped,  and  supposed 
to  be  in  heavy  force.  While  on  the  march  we  passed  by 
farm  after  farm  all  deserted  and  the  buildings  going  to  decay. 

After  leaving  the  river,  the  route  of  the  troops  was  through 
a  cane-brake,  dark  and  dismal,  and  as  desolate  and  dreary 
as  the  imagination  could  picture,  and  highly  musical  with 
croaking  of  frogs ;  to  these  add  reptiles  of  every  hue  and  spe- 
cies, and  you  have  some  idea  of  the  ground.  It  was  difficult 
for  the  troops  to  march  over.  Tramp  !  tramp  !  tramp  ! — firm 
and  undaunted,  the  brigade  proceeded  on  its  perilous  jour- 
ney, like  a  band  of  dark  spirits,  over  the  hard  and  uneven 
road,  accompanied  by  the  dull  rumbling  of  the  artillery  car- 
riages. That  was  a  night  that  tried  men's  souls.  Although 
moving  slowly  forward,  in  momentary  expectation  of  being 
attacked,  nothing  special  occurred.  As  the  first  roseate  hues 
of  morn  tinged  the  eastern  horizon,  we  discovered  the  smoke 
arising  from  the  enemy's  camps. 


WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  87 


CHAPTEE  XII. 

SKIRMISH      AT      PERKINS'      LANDING. — A    NEGRO'S      DESCRIPTION      OP    THE 
CANNONADING. — OFFICIAL   REPORT   OF   THE    SKIRMISH. 

the  morning  of  the  31st  of  May,  McCulloch's  Brigade 
formed  in  line  of  battle,  in  a  skirt  of  timber  adjoining 
Perkins'  plantation,  and  commenced  to  advance  on 
the  enemy's  camp.  They  were  followed  soon  after  by  Haws' 
and  Kandall's  Brigades.  On  the  arrival  of  McCulloch's  Brig- 
ade at  the  enemy's  camp,  they  discovered,  much  to  their  sur- 
prise, that  the  enemy  had  withdrawn,  under  the  protection  of 
their  gun-boats.  The  enemy  seemed  not  to  anticipate  our 
coming  until  a  few  minutes  previous  to  our  arrival,  as  they 
left  precipitately,  leaving  behind  them  their  provisions  and 
cooking  utensils.  Our  troops  helped  themselves  to  the  ene- 
my's "hard-tack"  and  coffee.  The  coffee  they  found  very 
palatable,  and  more  nourishing  than  corn-meal  coffee.  After 
they  had  satisfied  their  appetites,  McCulloch's  Brigade  ad- 
vanced in  search  of  the  enemy.  After  passing  the  enemy's 
camp  about  half  a  mile,  their  skirmishers  were  fired  upon 
from  the  direction  of  the  woods  that  were  on  the  right.  Our 
skirmishers  quickly  returned  the  fire,  and  advanced  in  the 
direction  of  the  woods,  where  the  enemy  was  formed  in  line 
of  battle.  On  their  arrival  at  the  woods,  they  discovered, 
much  to  their  surprise,  that  the  enemy  was  in  full  retreat, 
double-quicking  towards  the  levee  that  was  in  front,  and 
about  half  a  mile  from  where  our  troops  were  fired  upon. 
After  ascertaining  that  the  enemy  was  formed  in  line  of  battle 
behind  the  levee,  and  under  the  protection  of  their  gun-boats, 
they  fell  back  and  joined  their  respective  commands.  In  the 
mean  time  one  of  the  enemy's  gunboats  opened  fire  upon 


88  WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 

them,  without  'doing  much  harm,  their  shots  being  fired  at 
random,  as  it  were,  to  fire  the  woods.  General  McCulloch 
immediately  ordered  Captain  Edgar's  Battery  of  Light  Artil- 
lery to  the  front.  After  taking  their  position,  they  at  once 
opened  fire  on  the  gun-boats.  Their  battery  was  ably  sup- 
ported by  Allen's  and  "Waterhouse's  Regiments,  while  Flour- 
noy's  and  Fitzhugh's  regiments  supported  the  flanks.  A 
regular  artillery  duel  now  ensued.  The  intervening  valley 
was  one  dense  cloud  of  smoke,  which  rose  in  floating 
canopies  over  it.  "We  could  behold  the  sheets  of  flame, 
followed  by  volumes  of  smoke,  jump  out  from  the  mouths 
of  the  brazen  monsters,  while  the  loud  reverberating 
sounds  echoed  through  the  river  valley.  Captain  Edgar  and 
his  lieutenants  handled  their  brave  veterans  with  skill :  they 
worked  their  guns  with  alacrity.  It  might  not  be  amiss  to 
mention  that  Perkins'  Landing  is  situated  about  twenty-five 
miles  south  of  Yicksburg,  between  Carthage  and  Ashwood 
Landings. 

Several  of  our  artillery  shots  must  have  evidently  taken 
effect  on  the  gun-boats,  as  they  soon  dropped  down  the  river, 
out  of  the  range  of  our  guns. 

After  the  withdrawal  of  the  gunboats,  the  entire  division 
was  formed  in  line  of  battle,  expecting  to  draw  the  enemy  out 
from  under  cover  of  their  gun-boats.  After  remaining  in  line 
of  battle  about  half  an  hour,  our  pickets  returned  and 
reported  that  the  enemy  got  aboard  of  their  transports, 
destroying  a  large  amount  of  stores  that  were  intended  for 
Grant's  army  at  Grand  Gulf. 

Shortly  afterwards  we  took  up  the  line  of  march  back 
again  to  the  Tensas  River.  We  arrived  at  camp  on  the 
Tensas  River  late  in  the  evening,  after  marching  twenty-four 
miles. 

Our  loss   at   Perkins'    Landing    was   one   killed   and   six 
wounded.     The  loss  of  the  enemy  must  have  been  greater. 
*  -x-  *  •*  45-  -x- 

A  good  story  was  told  of  a  negro  cook,  named  Sam, 
belonging  to  one  of  the  officers,  who  helped  himself  to  the 


WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  89 

enemy's  goods  while  the  cannonading  was  going  on.  While 
he  was  engaged  in  making  a  thorough  examination  of  the 
enemy's  camp,  it  was  visited  occasionally  by  a  round-shot  or 
shell.  It  was  getting  too  hot  for  Sam ;  so  he  removed  to  what 
he  thought  a  safe  place,  when  a  shell  comes  right  bang  near 
him.  Sam  jumped  up  like  an  acrobat,  and  grinned  like  a 
gorilla.  "Oh,  Sam,  are  you  scared?"  asked  a  soldier  who 
was  calmly  looking  on.  "  Golly,  massa,  I  can  put  up  with 
dem  black  fellows,"  meaning  round-shot,  "but  them  damn 
rotten  fellows  dat  burst  so,  dey  play  de  bery  debil — you 
don't  know  where  dey  strike  you,"  said  Sam,  alluding  to  the 
shells.  He  could  not  stand  that,  nor  did  he  understand  it. 
He  threw  away  his  plunder,  and  hastened  to  discover  some 
place  of  concealment.  He  ran,  and  ran,  until  he  was  com- 
pletely exhausted ;  he  knew  not  where  to  go.  He  lay  down 
behind  a  log.  A  shell  exploded  near  the  spot.  That  was  no 
safe  place.  He  espied  Captain  Edgar's  Battery  busy  at  work 
handling  their  guns,  and  thought  that  would  be  a  good  place 
for  protection.  After  reaching  the  spot,  he  discovered  that  it 
was  anything  but  safe.  In  hunting  about,  he  found  a  place  to 
hide  in.  Glory !  Alas,  he  found  one  of  his  fellow-servants  stove 
into  the  hollow  log  so  firmly  that  he  was  unable  to  extricate 
himself.  Poor  Sam  for  two  long  hours  was  running  from 
place  to  place,  but  nowhere  could  he  find  a  spot  free  from 
those  awful  bombs  that  followed  him  with  such  pertinacity. 
Everything  must  have  an  end — the  fighting  closed.  Old  Sam 
found  himself  safe  and  sound.  He  afterwards  remarked, 
that  if  there  were  any  more  battles,  he  would  stay  out  of 
the  way  of  the  bombs. 

OFFICIAL  REPORT  OF  THE  SKIRMISH  AT  PERKINS'  LANDING. 
Major  B.  P.  McCiAY,  Asst.-Adjt.  and  Imp.- General : 

SIB, — At  one  o'clock  this  morning,  I  moved  with  my  brig- 
ade from  this  camp  to  attack  the  enemy  at  Perkins'  place, 
on  the  Mississippi  Kiver.  Had  two  bridges  constructed  over 
Bayou  De  Eussy  (one  of  timber,  the  other  of  cotton  bales  and 


90  WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 

plank).  Marched  ten  or  twelve  miles ;  drove  the  enemy's 
outposts  in,  and  attacked  him  bj  opening  a  fire  of  shot  and 
shell  from  one  section  of  Captain  Edgar's  Batteries,  directed 
against  his  transports  and  encampment,  both  of  which  were 
too  closely  under  the  cover  of  his  gun-boats  to  admit  of  an 
infantry  attack  without  endangering  too  great  a  loss  to  us, 
with  no  a  prospect  of  receiving  corresponding  benefit  to  our 
cause. 

The  principal  portion  of  my  infantry  were  kept  under  cover 
of  a  small  levee  and  mots  of  timber  skirting  a  lake,  which  hid 
them  from  the  enemy's  view,  while  the  section  of  the  bat- 
tery and  Colonel  Waterhouse's  Eegiment  were  thrown  for- 
ward in  the  open  field,  the  battery  opening  fire  upon  the 
enemy's  transports,  which  was  instantly  returned  by  the 
enemy's  gun-boats.  This  fire  was  kept  up  by  Captain  Edgar 
for  one  hour  and  twenty  minutes,  during  which  time  he  threw 
ninety-six  shot  and  shell  into  the  enemy's  camp,  and  at  his 
transports,  upon  which  he  was  embarking  his  land  forces. 
Having  witnessed  the  conduct  of  officers  and  men  of  the  battery 
and  Colonel  Waterhouse's  Eegiment,  it  is  gratifying  to  say,  that 
they  did  their  duty  nobly.  Captain  Edgar  commanded  his 
men  and  guns,  causing  them  to  be  ably  and  effectually 
handled.  Their  fire  was  energetic  and  efficient ;  nearly  every 
shot  and  shell  well  directed.  Himself,  and  his  officers  and 
his  men,  behaved  most  gallantly  during  the  engagement,  ex- 
posed to  heavy  fire  from  the  enemy's  transports  during  the 
whole  time.  Colonel  Waterhouse  was  in  front  of  his  regi- 
ment, exhibiting  coolness  and  courage  worthy  of  imitation 
by  all  officers  and  men.  His  major  (Taylor)  and  company 
officers  were  alike  calm  and  at  their  respective  posts,  ready 
to  execute  with  promptness  any  order  that  might  be  given, 
while  their  men  stood  up  under  the  fire  like  a  wall  of  mason- 
ry, until  ordered  by  me  to  lie  down,  in  order  to  expose  them 
as  little  as  possible  to  the  balls  and  fragments  of  shell  that 
were  constantly  flyingly  thick  about  them. 

Major  Eedwood,  who  was  placed  in  charge  of  the  skirmish- 
ers (aided  by  Captain  Flowers,  quartermaster  of  Colonel 


WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  91 

Flournoy's  Regiment,  his  adjutant),  managed  them  with  ability 
and  courage  which  showed  him  fit  for  the  duty  to  which  he 
had  been  assigned,  while  the  officers  and  men  under  his  com- 
ma ad  behaved  in  the  most  commendable  manner. 

Captain  Pitts,  of  my  staff,  was  put  in  command  of  a  few 
men  mounted  as  cavalry,  and  used  as  a  corps  of  observation 
or  reconnoitering  party.  He  was  in  advance  of  all ;  obtained 
and  furnished  me  valuable  information  as  to  the  position  and 
movements  of  the  enemy,  without  which  my  own  movements 
would  have  been  conducted  at  great  disadvantage.  The  ser- 
vices of  this  party  were  indispensable  to  me,  and  were  gal- 
lantly performed.  The  balance  of  my  command,  though 
hidden  as  far  as  possible,  most  of  the  time,  from  the  enemy, 
were  nevertheless  exposed  to  his  shell,  which  were  thrown 
from  his  gun-boats  wherever  he  suspected  we  might  be 
posted  ;  and  not  an  officer  or  man,  so  far  as  I  could  perceive, 
failed  to  do  his  duty,  or  showed  the  least  disposition  to  avoid 
a  full  participation  in  the  conflict.  Upon  the  contrary,  all 
seemed  anxious  to  go  fully  into  the  fight,  and  when  ordered 
to  form  line  of  battle  in  the  open  field,  within  six  hundred 
yards  of  the  bank  of  the  river,  in  full  view  of  the  gun-boats, 
the  movement  was  executed  with  as  much  promptness,  cool- 
ness, and  courage,  as  it  could  have  been  done  by  the  best 
troops  the  world  has  ever  produced. 

The  enemy  fired  over  two  hundred  shot  and  shell  at  my 
command,  with  less  effect  than  I  supposed  the  same  number 
could  have  been  fired  at  the  same  distance.  My  loss  was 
one  killed,  two  wounded,  and  two  missing. 

The  loss  of  the  enemy  could  not  be  ascertained,  but  must 
have  been  considerable,  as  several  of  Captain  Edgar's  shots 
were  known  to  take  effect  upon  the  transports ;  besides  the 
many  well-aimed  shells  that  exploded  in  the  timber  which 
covered  their  encampment,  as  well  as  many  favorable  oppor- 
tunities which  presented  themselves  to  our  skirmishers,  of 
picking  off  individuals  during  the  fight.  I  learn  from  un- 
official sources,  that  the  enemy  had  eleven  killed  and  several 


92  WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 

wounded  on  the  land,  besides  those  which  must  have  suffered 
similarly  on  the  transports. 

It  is  not  in  the  number  killed  and  wounded  of  the  enemy 
that  the  loss  or  the  benefit  to  our  cause  chiefly  consists,  but 
in  the  fact  that  they  were  compelled  to  remove  or  destroy 
their  stores,  abandon  their  camp,  and  break  up  their  depot 
on  the  bank  of  the  Mississippi  River,  directly  under  the  cover 
of  their  gun-boats,  which  is  well  calculated  to  distract  the 
movements  of  General  Grant,  and  cause  a  diversion  in  favor 
of  Vicksburg,  by  compelling  him  to  send  a  force  to  their  side 
of  the  river,  to  prevent  his  communication  from  being  cut 
off  from  his  source  of  supplies  on  the  Upper  Mississippi 
Eiver. 

Signed,         General  HENRY  E.  McCuLLOCH. 


WALKEB'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  93 


CHAPTEE  XIII. 

THE  DIVISION  CKOSSES  THE  TEN8AS  RIVER.— MARCH  TO  MILLIKEN'S  BEND 
AND  YOUNG'S  POINT. — SCENES   BEFORE  THE  BATTLE. 

-fr 
S 

'N  the  morning  of  June  1st,  we  commenced  crossing 
the  Tensas  River.  After  crossing,  the  division 
camped  on  the  river-bank. 

On  the  morning  of  the  2d,  Haws'  and  Randall's  Brigades 
took  up  the  line  of  march  for  Flowers'  plantation,  on  Bayou 
Macon.  After  marching  twelve  miles,  they  camped  on  the 
banks  of  the  bayou,  waiting  for  McCulloch's  Brigade.  On 
the  morning  of  the  3d,  McCulloch's  Brigade  took  up  the  line 
of  march  for  Flowers'  plantation. 

On  the  4th,  the  entire  division  marched  up  the  banks  of 
Bayou  Macon  some  thirteen  miles.  Bayou  Macon  is  a  deep, 
dirty,  sluggish  stream,  stocked  with  a  variety  of  fish  and  alli- 
gators. The  river  bottoms  on  both  sides  of  the  bayou  are 
wide,  well-timbered,  and  of  the  greatest  fertility,  admirably 
adapted  to  either  cotton  or  corn.  Clear  of  the  bottoms,  you 
meet  with  undulating  prairies,  affording  nutritious  grass  for 
pasturage.  The  country  is  subject  to  bilious  fevers,  and 
others  of  a  debilitating  type. 

June  5th.  Marched  fifteen  miles.  On  our  march  through 
the  swamps  we  beheld  several  large  rattlesnakes,  that  had 
been  killed  by  our  advance  guards.  Very  frequently,  in  the 
swamps  of  Louisiana,  a  soldier  wakes  up  in  the  morning  and 
finds  that  he  has  a  rattlesnake  for  a  sleeping  partner ;  but 
there  is  one  excellent  trait  in  the  character  of  these  reptiles : 
they  never  bite  unless  disturbed,  and  will  get  out  of  the  way 
as  soon  as  possible,  except  in  the  month  of  August,  when 
they  are  said  to  be  blind,  and  will  snap  at  anything  they 
may  hear  about  them. 


94  WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 

June  6th.  Marched  ten  miles,  and  camped  near  the  village 
of  Richmond  on  Roundaway  Bayou.  We  remained  here 
long  enough  to  cook  rations,  previous  to  advancing  on  Milli- 
ken's  Bend  and  Young's  Point,  on  the  Mississippi  River. 
After  cooking  two  days'  rations  we  remained  in  camp  about 
four  hours,  to  rest.  In  the  evening  we  received  orders  to  get 
ready  for  a  night-march.  All  the  troops  realized  the  hard- 
ship of  a  night-march,  and  the  forthcoming  battle  ;  yet  not 
a  man  quailed  or  was  found  missing  from  his  place.  Many 
of  the  men  delivered  letters  to  those  detailed  to  remain  with 
the  wagons,  for  the  loved  ones  at  home,  in  case  they  died  on 
the  battle-field.  In  sections  four  abreast,  and  close  order, 
the  troops  took  up  the  line  of  march,  in  anticipation  of  meet- 
ing almost  certain  death,  but  with  undaunted,  un quailing 
spirits.  In  breathless  silence,  with  the  high  and  glittering 
stars  looking  down  upon  them,  through  dark  and  deep  defiles 
marched  the  dense  array  of  men,  moving  steadily  forward  ; 
not  a  whisper  was  'heard — no  sound  of  clanking  saber,  or  rattle 
of  canteen  and  cup. 

After  crossing  Roundaway  Bayou  at  Richmond,  nothing 
unusual  transpired  until  we  arrived  within  six  miles  of  Milli- 
ken's  Bend  (the  same  distance  from  Richmond),  where  the 
road  forks ;  the  right-hand  road  leads  to  Young's  Point  (some 
twenty-two  miles  distant),  and  the  left  leads  to  Milliken's 
Bend.  Haws'  Brigade  proceeded  to  Young's  Point  for  the 
purpose  of  breaking  up  the  enemy's  camp,  and  McCulloch's 
Brigade  proceeded  to  Milliken's  Bend  for  the  same  purpose  ; 
while  Randall's  Brigade  remained  at  the  forks  of  the  road,  to 
reinforce  either  of  the  two  brigades  in  case  of  emergency. 


WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  95 


CHAPTEE  XIV. 

THE  BATTLE  OF  MILLIKEN'S  BEND. — OPERATIONS  OF  HAWS'  BRIGADE  AT 
YOUNG'S  POINT. — GENERAL  MCCULLOCH'S  REPORT  OF  THE  BATTLE.— 

GENERAL  WALKER'S    REPORT    OF  HIS    DIVISION    AT    MILLIKEN'S  BEND 
AND  YOUNG'S  POINT. — FEDERAL  REPORT  OF  THE  BATTLE. 

"  Oh,  few  and  weak  our  numbers  were — 

A  handful  of  brave  men  ; 
But  to  their  God  they  gave  their  prayers, 
And  rushed  to  battle  then." 

BOUT  four  o'clock,  on  the  morning  of  June  7th,  1863, 
McCulloch's  Brigade,  after  a  tedious  night's  march, 
had  arrived  within  a  mile  of  Milliken's  Bend,  on  the 
Mississippi  Biver,  for  the  purpose  of  attacking  the  enemy, 
who  were  encamped  in  heavy  force  at  this  place.  Milliken's 
Bend  is  a  level  plateau,  free  from  timber  and  traversed  by 
several  roads.  It  was  well  capable  of  defense,  for  the  levee 
protected  the  front,  while  burdock  hedges  extended  all  around 
it,  making  it,  as  it  were,  a  naturally-fortified  place. 

Owing  to  the  position  and  circumstances,  it  was  reasonable 
to  suppose  that  the  enemy  would  have  artillery  placed  in 
position  to  sweep  the  roads  leading  to  their  fortifications. — 
They  relied  on  their  gun-boats  principally,  to  protect  them 
from  any  flank  movement.  Their  infantry  pickets  extended 
about  half  a  mile  from  the  main  levee,  and  were  concealed  be- 
hind the  hedges.  Our  cavalry  scouts,  belonging  to  Colonel  Har- 
rison's Louisiana  Regiment,  had  advanced  to  within  half  a  mile 
of  the  levee,  when  they  were  fired  upon.  The  effect  of  so  sud- 
den and  terrible  a  fire,  from  an  invisible  foe,  was  very  startling 
and  disheartening.  No  wonder  the  simple-minded  cavalry 
scouts  were  broken,  and  that  many  of  them  hurried  to  the  rear, 
in  utter  confusion,  with  and  without  muskets,  hats,  or  coats  ! 


9G  WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 

As  they  rushed  headlong  from  under  fire,  down  the  road, 
our  men  were  led  to  suppose  it  was  the  enemy  ;  consequently 
they  were  fired  upon  by  our  infantry  pickets,  and  it  was  not 
until  two  of  their  horses  were  killed  that  we  discovered  the 
mistake  ;  fortunately,  none  of  the  men  got  hurt. 

General  McCulloch,  having  to  rely  on  his  infantry  pickets 
after  the  cavalry  abandoned  him,  brought  forward  his  heavy 
lines  of  skirmishers,  who  were  met  with  a  galling  fire  of 
musketry.  The  enemy's  skirmishers  soon  fell  back. 

"  McCulloch's  Brigade,  advance ! "  is  heard  in  a  bold,  distinct 
voice  above  the  roar  and  clamor  of  battle.  "  Forward,  double- 
quick,  guide  center !  "  and  onward  the  gallant  heroes  dash 
into  the  face  of  the  most  invulnerable  point  of  the  enemy's 
works. 

They  are  greeted  by  a  murderous  fire  of  minie  balls. 
Gaps  are  opened  in  the  ranks,  but  they  close  again  and  move 
still  onward ;  thus  fighting  from  hedge  to  hedge,  and  ditch  to 
ditch,  to  the  main  levee,  where  the  enemy  took  position.  It 
was  impossible  for  our  troops  to  keep  in  line  of  battle,  owing 
to  the  many  hedges  we  had  to  encounter,  which  it  was  impos- 
sible to  pass,  except  through  a  few  gaps  that  had  been  used 
as  gates  or  passways ;  so  we  had  to  get  out  the  best  way 
we  could.  The  16th  Dismounted  Cavalry,  under  command 
of  Colonel  Gregg,  the  17th  Infantry,  under  command  of  Colonel 
Allen,  and  the  19th  Infantry,  commanded  by  Colonel  Water- 
house,  took  position  on  the  left  of  the  road,  while  the  16th 
Infantry,  under  command  of  Colonel  Flournoy,  took  their 
position  on  the  right  of  the  road. 

With  the  first  streak  of  daylight  visible  through  the  light 
mist  that  ascended  from  the  river,  the  battle  became  general. 
The  enemy  opened  a  terrible  fire  of  musketry.  After  firing  a 
volley  at  the  enemy,  we  were  ordered  to  charge  them  with  the 
bayonet.  Without  stopping  to  reload,  the  troops  on  the  left 
of  the  road  rushed  upon  the  enemy.  The  enemy  gave  away 
and  stampeded  pell-mell  over  the  levee,  in  great  terror  and 
confusion.  Our  troops  followed  after  them,  bayoneting  them 
by  hundreds.  After  the  enemy  got  behind  their  breastworks, 


WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  97 

composed  of  cotton-bales,  they  made  a  stubborn  fight.  When 
our  troops  got  into  close  quarters  with  them  (the  troops 
of  the  enemy  were  composed  principally  of  negroes),  bayonets 
were  crossed,  and  muskets  clubbed,  and  the  struggle  indeed 
became  a  close  and  deadly  one. 

The  enemy  repeatedly  attempted  to  hold  their  position 
behind  their  cotton-bales,  but  were  met  each  time  by  the 
ringing  cheer  and  charge  of  the  gallant  Texans ;  so  much  so, 
that  their  heroic  commander,  General  McCulloch,  exclaim- 
ed, "  Bravo,  bravo ! "  in  ecstasy  of  admiration  and  delight. 
Nothing  could  sucessfully  resist  the  fighting  of  our  troops. 
Our  officers  and  men  did  all  that  men  could  do  ;  they  fought 
like  so  many  tigers  over  their  prey.  When  our  troops  gained 
the  bloody  field,  they  could  see  how  desperately  they  had 
fought  for  its  possession. 

Dead  bodies  were  found  lying  in  every  direction.  Let  us 
take  a  look  along  the  shattered  ranks.  An  awful  sight !  See 
that  number  of  brave  fellows  now  stretched  in  their  gore,  who, 
but  an  hour  ago,  were  the  personification  of  life,  strength,  and 
manliness;  who  had  marched  up  with  stout  hearts  to  the 
fray — a  march  only  from  earth  to  eternity.  They  will  never 
march  again  !  Our  gallant  troops  were  led  by  such  men  as  the 
gallant  and  brave  Colonel  Dick  Waterhouse,  ably  assisted  by 
his  mild  and  heroic  Lieutenant-Colonel  Taylor;  the  tacti- 
cian, Colonel  R.  T.  P.  Allen,  assisted  by  his  indefatigable 
Lieutenant-Colonel  Wash.  Jones ;  so,  too,  the  bloody  16th 
Dismounted  Cavalry,  still  without  their  veteran  Colonel  Fitz- 
hugh,  but  in  good  hands  when  led  by  the  chivalric  Lieutenant- 
Colonel  Gregg,  aided  and  assisted  by  the  intrepid  Major 
Diamond. 

As  I  previously  announced,  the  16th  Infantry  was  on 
the  right  of  the  road  when  the  charge  over  the  levee  was 
undertaken.  The  commander  of  the  16th  Infantry,  the  brave 
statesman  Colonel  George  Flournoy,  was  entirely  ignorant  of 
the  plan  of  attack ;  consequently,  under  the  circumstances, 
he  had  to  rely  on  his  own  judgment — ordering  his  men  to 
cut  their  way  through  the  burdock  hedge  in  their  front.  Once 
7 


98  WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 

through  the  hedge,  he  gave  the  command  to  fix  bayonets ;  in 
the  meantime  he  gave  instructions  to  his  officers,  that  as 
soon  as  the  regiment  had  crossed  the  levee,  the  regiment 
should  move,  by  the  right  flank,  towards  the  enemy's  quarters. 
After  giving  the  command  "Double-quick!"  in  a  loud  and 
sonorous  voice,  the  regiment  commenced  to  advance  towards 
the  levee,  and,  apparently,  the  greatest  vivacity  and  enthusi- 
asm prevailed  among  his  men.  Already  a  rattling  fire  on  the 
right  plainly  announced  that  the  work  of  destruction  had 
commenced  ;  but,  alas !  as  the  16th  Infantry  was  on  the  eve  of 
climbing  the  levee,  General  McCulloch's  adjutant  arrived 
with  orders,  from  General  McCulloch  to  Colonel  Flournoy, 
to  double-quick  his  regiment  to  the  left  of  the  brigade,  to 
prevent  the  enemy  from  flanking  his  left  wing.  The  calm 
and  cool  perception  of  Colonel  Flournoy  in  undertaking  to 
attack  the  enemy  on  their  flank  instead  of  their  front,  showed 
a  great  deal  of  skill  and  wisdom.  An  attack  made  on 
either  the  right  or  left  flank  of  the  enemy's  works,  could 
have  easily  been  accomplished,  without  any  serious  loss 
to  our  troops,  while  an  attack  coming  from  any  other 
source  was  hazardous  and  dangerous  to  the  attacking 
party,  owing  to  the  fact  that  the  enemy  had  their  cotton- 
bale  breastworks  to  cover  them.  Colonel  Flournoy  directed 
the  adjutant  to  tell  General  McCulloch  that  his  regiment 
would  be  able  to  capture  the  enemy's  camp  if  he  would  allow 
him.  The  adjutant  informed  him  thab  his  orders  were  im- 
perative, and  must  be  obeyed.  Colonel  Flournoy  immediately 
ordered  his  regiment  to  double-quick  to  the  left  of  the 
brigade.  Away  they  go,  pell-mell,  along  the  foot  of  the 
levee,  led  by  their  colonel,  erect  and  precise  in  his  saddle, 
towering  above  his  men,  calm  as  a  summer  morn.  It  was 
cheering  and  inspiring  indeed  to  observe  his  men,  calm  and 
with  such  determined  air,  and  the  unbounded  confidence 
with  which  they  followed  him.  The  strong  voice  of  his 
lieutenant-colonel,  Shepard,  the  Ney  of  the  division,  conspicu- 
ous on  his  iron-gray  charger,  is  heard  urging  his  men  forward 
a  velocipede  speed.  As  he  passes  by  the  various  regi- 


99 

ments  of  the  brigade,  with  sword  in  hand,  cheer  after  cheer 
greets  him.  As  a  token  of  gratitude  towards  them,  he  uncov- 
ers his  head,  showing  his  gray  hair,  and  announcing  to  them 
the  fact  that  it  wasn't  a  safe  place  to  make  them  a  speech  ;  he 
would  do  so  after  the  battle  was  over.  Here  I  will  state, 
that  of  all  the  field  officers  of  Walker's  Division  none  was 
more  highly  respected  by  the  troops  of  the  division,  than 
Lieutenant-Colonel  James  E.  Shepard.  The  16th  Regiment 
having  arrived  at  the  position  assigned  to  them,  and  with 
celerity  formed  in  line  of  battle,  to  await  further  orders, 
General  McCulloch  shortly  afterwards  came  along,  and 
ordered  a  detail  from  each  company  of  the  regiment  to  act 
as  sharpshooters,  and  to  take  their  position  near  the  top  of 
the  levee,  to  harass  and  annoy  the  enemy  as  much  as  possi- 
ble. In  the  mean  time,  Colonel  Flournoy,  hearing  some  firing 
in  his  rear,  ordered  a  company  to  ascertain  where  the  firing 
came  from.  The  company  sent  out  by  him  soon  returned 
with  six  prisoners  that  were  lying  in  ambush. 

General  McCulloch,  while  riding  along  the  line,  was  fired 
upon  by  a  stray  Yankee,  who  had  evidently  been  cut  off  from 
his  command.  Carrying  always  a  carbine  when  in  action,  he 
returned  the  fire,  and  killed  the  Yankee,  proving  to  be  a  better 
marksman  than  his  opponent. 

During  the  firing  across  the  levee  by  our  sharpshooters 
an  incident  occurred  worthy  of  notice,  which  I  will  relate : 
A  musician,  belonging  to  the  band  of  the  16th  Infantry,  who 
was  detailed  to  aid  and  assist  the  infirmary  corps,  was  sent  to 
a  house  in  rear  of  the  command  for  the  purpose  of  getting 
some  water  for  the  wounded.  Arriving  at  the  house,  he  found 
himself  in  the  middle  of  a  company  of  Uncle  Sam's  colored 
pets,  commanded  by  an  Anglo-Saxon  Yankee,  who  immedi- 
ately made  him  a  prisoner.  The  Yankee  captain  inquired  the 
position  of  our  troops,  and  was  informed  by  the  musician,  who 
gave  the  location  in  quite  a  different  direction  from  where  our 
troops  were.  The  captain  then  replied,  that  he  could  easily 
get  through  to  his  lines.  The  musician  remarked  to  him  that 
he  would  pilot  him  past  our  lines.  The  captain  allowed 


100  WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 

him  the  privilege,  and,  as  a  matter  of  course,  the  musician  led 
him  and  his  company  into  our  lines,  where  they  were  all  taken 
prisoners,  without  the  firing  of  a  gun. 

About  7  o'clock,  A.  M.,  three  of  the  enemy's  gun-boats 
arrived  at  the  scene  of  action,  and  commenced  shelling  our 
troops.  These  brilliant  and  substantial  exploits  of  hero- 
ism of  our  troops  were  witnessed  by  the  commander  of 
the  division,  who,  from  the  beginning  of  the  battle,  had  occu- 
pied a  position  on  an  eminence  in  the  rear  of  the  line  of  bat- 
tle. His  cool  sagacity  comprehended  every  movement  of  the 
troops  and  its  consequences,  and,  with  infinite  self-possession, 
amidst  a  continued  shower  of  shot  and  shell,  seeing  that 
further  sacrifice  on  the  part  of  his  troops  was  useless,  about 
ten  o'clock,  A.  M.,  he  rode  up  in  person  to  General  McCulloch, 
and  ordered  him  to  withdraw  his  brigade  from  the  scene  of 
action,  on  account  of  his  hearing  that  several  transports, 
loaded  with  troops,  had  passed  Lake  Providence,  on  their 
way  to  reinforce  Milliken's  Bend.  On  the  arrival  of  McCul- 
loch's  Brigade  at  the  position  taken  by  Randall's  Brigade,  they 
were  heartily  cheered  by  their  comrades.  The  gun-boats  con- 
tinued shelling  our  troops  until  they  were  out  of  range  of  their 
shots. 

Our  loss  in  this  engagement  was  44  killed,  130  wounded,  and 
and  10  missing.  Total  casualties,  184;  including  2  officers 
killed,  and  10  wounded. 

The  loss  of  the  enemy  numbered  about  800,  including  the 
number  of  negroes  that  were  drowned  in  the  Mississippi  River, 
in  undertaking  to  swim  to  a  transport  that  was  lying  at  the 
opposite  bank  of  the  river. 

General  McCulloch's  Brigade  did  not  exceed  1,500  men 
when  they  went  into  action.  The  enemy  had  twice,  if  not 
three  times  that  number,  backed  by  three  gunboats.  In  jus- 
tice to  General  McCulloch,  I  will  state  that  the  battle  was 
made  in  obedience  to  orders  received  from  Major-General 
Taylor,  commanding  the  District  of  Louisiana.  His  orders 
were  imperative  to  General  McCulloch  to  attack  the  enemy's 
works,  and  carry  them  at  the  point  of  the  bayonet. 


WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  101 

General  Taylor  was  led  to  believe  that  the  force  of  the 
enemy  consisted  only  of  one  battalion  of  cavalry,  and  one 
brigade  of  negro  troops,  without  artillery  or  gun-boats.  From 
information  received  after  the  battle,  we  learned  that  the 
enemy  were  fully  apprised  of  our  intended  attack,  and  had 
made  full  preparation  to  give  us  a  warm  reception,  having 
received  a  reinforcement  of  several  transports,  loaded  with 
troops,  the  night  previous. 

General  McCulloch  was  entirely  misinformed  of  the  enemy's 
number  and  position,  as  his  guide  had  deserted  him  when  the 
enemy's  skirmishers  had  opened  fire  upon  him.  Conse- 
quently, he  had  to  rely  on  his  own  skill  and  ingenuity  in  ascer- 
taining the  nature  of  the  ground  over  which  his  troops  had 
to  advance.  Instead  of  finding,  as  was  represented  to  him, 
an  open  field,  without  any  obstruction,  the  ground  we  advanced 
over  was  exceedingly  rough  and  broken,  covered  entirely  with 
running  briers  and  vines.  It  was  also  cut  up  with  ditches, 
and  obstructed  with  burdock  hedges.  In  fact,  so  strong  was 
the  enemy's  position,  that  General  McCulloch  acknowledged 
to  several  of  his  officers,  after  the  battle  was  over,  that  noth- 
ing but  the  bravest  and  best  of  fighting,  under  the  providence 
of  God,  could  have  given  victory. 

In  General  McCulloch's  official  report  of  the  battle,  he 
sincerely  mourns  the  loss  of  his  brave  men,  by  remarking 
that  it  is  truly  deplorable,  and  his  heart  sickens  at  the  con- 
templation of  the  battle,  as  well  as  at  the  scathing  ordeal 
through  which  his  brigade  had  to  pass  ;  but,  nevertheless,  his 
confidence  in  and  love  for  his  brave  men  are  by  no  means 
shaken.  He  hoped  at  some  future  time  his  brigade  might  meet 
the  enemy  in  an  open  field,  where  they  would  have  a  fair  chance, 
so  as  to  gain  a  complete  victory  to  compensate  them  for  the  gal- 
lant fighting  they  had  done,  and  would  do  again,  when  called 
upon  to  meet  the  fire  of  the  enemy. 

McCulloch's  Brigade,  in  company  with  Randall's,  rested 
about  half  an  hour  after  they  were  safe  from  the  fire  of  the 
enemy.  After  refreshing  somewhat,  they  took  up  the  line  of 
march  back  again  to  Richmond.  About  fifteen  minutes'  march- 


102 

ing  brought  them  to  the  hospital,  located  in  some  negro  cabins 
designated  as  a  hospital  by  having  a  yellow'  flag  on  top  of  the 
various  cabins. 

If  one  wishes  to  view  the  havoc  of  war,  next  to  the  battle- 
field this  is  the  place  to  witness  it ;  so  fearful,  so  horrible  are 
the  scenes,  that,  long  after  you  leave  the  place,  perhaps  haunt- 
ing you  to  the  verge  of  life,  the  screams  of  the  wounded,  the 
groans  of  the  dying  will  ring  in  your  ears,  or  some  form,  cold 
and  stiff  in  death's  icy  embrace,  be  present  to  your  mental 
vision. 

But  this  is  no  time  for  these  feelings  ;  such  is  the  fortune  of 
war.  It  is  consoling  to  see  how  some  of  the  men  bear  up  under 
their  misfortunes,  and  endure  the  agony  of  dreadful  wounds  ; 
many  of  them  are  smiling  and  happy,  as  if  returning  from  a 
pleasure-party.  u  Well,  they  have  popped  me  this  time,"  ex- 
claimed one  poor  fellow,  with  a  ball  through  his  face  ;  "  but  I  will 
be  at  them  again."  "  Hallo,  Bill,"  shouted,  in  a  faint  voice,  a 
half-grown  boy  from  an  ambulance,  to  a  friend  on  foot,  who 
was  holding  up  his  shattered  arm ;  "  they  have  broken  my 
thigh,  but  it  is  in  a  glorious  cause."  Many  with  slight  wounds 
are  hurrying  up  the  surgeons  to  have  them  dressed,  so  that  they 
may  accompany  the  brigade  on  its  march. 

One  more  picture,  and  the  tableau  is  complete — the  burial 
of  the  dead.  During  the  battle,  trenches  fifty  feet  long  and 
three  feet  wide  were  dug,  to  receive  the  bodies  of  the  brave 
men  and  officers.  It  was  seldom  a  coffin  could  be  procured, 
and  the  brave  defender  of  his  country  had  to  be  wrapped  in 
his  blanket,  and,  in  his  soiled  and  battle-stained  garments,  he 
was  placed  hastily  in  the  trench,  and  left  to  rest  in  peace. 

"  No  useless  coffin  inclosed  his  breast, 
Nor  in  sheet  nor  in  shroud  we  wound  him ; 
But  he  lay  like  a  warrior  taking  his  rest, 
With  his  tattered  blanket  around  him." 

After  passing  the  hospital,  we  continued  our  march  towards 
our  old  camp,  near  Richmond.  "We  arrived  in  camp  about  sun- 
set. As  many  of  the  troops  were  preparing  to  eat  supper,  we 


WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  103 

received  orders  to  form  in  line  of  battle.  Immediately  orders  are 
issued  to  take  up  the  lin|  of  march  back  again  the  way  we  came. 
Various  rumors  are  afloat  that  Haws'  Brigade  was  surrounded 
by  the  enemy,  with  no  possible  chance  of  escape  without  assist- 
ance from  the  balance  of  the  division.  Hearing  no  more  from 
Haws'  Brigade  since  they  parted  with  us  at  the  forks  of  the 
road,  the  night  previous,  the  rumor  was  generally  believed 
that  it  was  in  a  critical  position.  Continuing  our  march 
about  two  miles  from  camp,  we  heard  the  glad  tidings  that 
Haws'  Brigade  was  all  right,  and  was  within  a  mile  of  us. 
The  news  proved  true,  and  the  balance  of  the  division  was 
ordered  back  again  to  their  old  camp-ground.  Haws'  Brig- 
ade arrived  shortly  afterwards,  with  quite  a  number  of  prison- 
ers they  had  captured  at  Young's  Point.  How  the  report 
about  their  being  surrounded  originated  I  am  unable  to  say. 
At  dress-parade,  in  the  evening,  the  following  official  report 
from  General  McCulloch  was  read  to  his  brigade  : 

GENERAL  ORDER  No.  1. 

On  Saturday,  we  again  met  the  enemy  in  force  at  Milliken's 
Bend,  on  the  bank  of  the  Mississippi  River,  under  the  protec- 
tion of  his  gun-boats.  Their  pickets  and  skirmishers  and  out- 
posts were  steadily  driven  from  ditch  to  ditch,  and  hedge  to 
hedge,  until  they  fell  behind  their  breastworks,  at  which  they 
made  a  stubborn  and  desperate  stand,  but  which  were  carried 
by  our  troops  with  a  charge  not  excelled  since  the  war  com- 
menced. In  this  charge  the  regiments  of  Colonels  Waterhouse, 
Allen,  and  Fitzhugh  were  the  participants,  until  Colonel  Flour- 
noy's  Eegiment  arrived,  and  assisted  in  driving  the  enemy  from 
his  barricade,  in  an  angle  of  his  works,  on  our  left, — Colonel 
Waterhouse,  with  his  regiment,  gallantly  charging  over  the 
levee,  and  entirely  through  the  enemy's  camp,  to  the  water's 
edge. 

Too  much  credit  cannot  be  awarded  to  our  gallant  officers  and 
men  for  the  courage  and  gallantry  displayed  on  this  battle-field. 
Our  loss  of  184,  in  killed,  wounded,  and  missing,  shows  but  too 
plainly  how  firm  was  the  resistance  of  the  foe,  while  the  hun- 


104  WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 

dreds  which  they  left  dead  behind  their  breastworks  and 
strewn  over  the  field,  attest,  with  equai  clearness,  how  desper- 
ately and  efficiently  our  troops  fought.  We  met  the  enemy 
at  fearful  odds,  and,  with  well-directed  fire,  bayonets,  and 
clubbed  guns,  drove  him  from  his  stronghold,  through  his 
camp,  and  under  the  bank  of  the  river  and  the  protection  of 
his  gun -boats. 

During  this  day's  battle,  all  did  their  duty  to  such  an  ex- 
tent, and  so  many  commendable  acts  of  gallantry  were  per- 
formed, that  it  is  impossible  to  specify  them  here.  The  com- 
manding general  returns  his  grateful  thanks  to  the  officers  and 
soldiers  of  his  command  for  the  gallantry  with  which  they 
sustained  our  glorious  cause  upon  this  desperately-fought 
field,  and  he  feels  that  a  grateful  country  will  award  to  them 
all  he  would  ask.  He  assures  them  that,  while  his  heart 
bleeds  over  the  recollection  of  the  dead  and  wounded  of  his 
command,  the  noble  conduct  of  all  increases  his  love  for  them, 
and  confidence  in  those  that  are  still  left  with  him  to  defend 
our  country  and  our  cause. 

(Signed,)  General  HENRY  E.  McCuLLocH. 

GENERAL  WALKER'S  REPORT  OF  HIS  DIVISION  AT  MILLIKEN'S 
BEND  AND  YOUNG'S  POINT. 

Major  E.  SURGET,  Asst.  Adjt.- General: 

SIR, — I  have  the  honor  to  forward  herewith  the  report  of 
Brigadier-Generals  Henry  E.  McCulloch  and  J.  M.  Haws,  of 
the  operations  of  their  brigades  in  this  vicinity.  In  regard  to 
the  former,  nothing  could  have  been  more  admirable  than  the 
gallantry  displayed  by  officers  and  men ;  and  the  failure  of 
complete  success  wa^  principally  owing  to  the  want  of  local 
knowledge  and  the  incompetency  of  the  guides,  the  great 
strength  of  the  position,  and  the  extreme  difficulty  of  carrying 
it  by  a  coup  de  main. 

*         *         *         -x-        .-*         *         •*         #•         *-         *• 

As  soon  as  the  enemy's  pickets  were  encountered,  it  seems 
General  McCulloch  formed  his  brigade  in  line  of  battle,  and  ad- 


WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  105 

vanced  upon  the  enemy,  who  were  posted  behind  the  hedges, 
so  as  to  fire  through  the  openings.  Upon  reaching  the  hedges, 
it  was  found  entirely  impracticable  to  pass  them,  except 
through  the  few  openings  left  for  convenience  by  the  planter. 
In  advancing  through  the  gaps,  the  line  of  battle  was  neces- 
sarily broken,  and  the  frequency  with  which  this  became 
necessary  before  reaching  the  levee  behind  which  the  enemy, 
in  superior  force,  was  found  posted,  exposed  the  brigade  to  a 
galling  fire,  while  broken  into  columns  in  order  to  pass  through 
the  openings  in  the  hedges.  Owing  to  these  frequent  inter- 
ruptions the  brigade  was  unable  to  advance  in  the  order  of 
battle.  The  brigade  reached  the  open  space  between  the  last 
hedge  and  the  first  levee,  about  twenty-five  paces  in  width,  in 
some  confusion,  and  the  ensemble  of  the  movement  upon  the 
enemy's  position  was  thus  necessarily  lost,  the  different  regi- 
ments of  the  brigade  having  reached  the  open  space  at  differ- 
ent periods.  Notwithstanding  the  galling  and  destructive 
fire  of  the  enemy,  the  regiments  of  Allen,  Fitzhugh,  and 
Waterhouse,  were  formed  and  led  against  the  enemy,  driving 
them  from  their  hiding-place.  The  enemy  was  securely  posted 
behind  the  first  levee,  awaiting  our  advance.  Notwithstand- 
ing the  disadvantages  our  troops  labored  under,  we  drove 
them  from  its  covers,  and  followed  them  across  the  open 
space  between  the  two  levees,  using  the  bayonet  freely.  At 
the  second  levee,  however,  our  men  encountered  the  main  force 
of  the  enemy,  entirely  covered  from  our  fire,  and,  after  a  gal- 
lant effort  to  carry  the  position,  were  compelled  to  fall  back 
behind  the  first  levee.  We  continued  to  hold  until  the  wounded 
were  sent  to  the  rear,  and  the  men,  exhausted  by  the  excessive 
heat  of  the  day  and  want  of  water,  were  withdrawn  in  good 
order  by  General  McCulloch.  Randall's  Brigade,  which  by 
General  Taylor's  orders  was  held  in  reserve,  six  miles  from  the 
field,  was  hastened  forward  upon  General  McCulloch's  request 
for  reinforcements,  but  did  not  reach  the  scene  of  action  until 
General  McCulloch,  having  several  times  failed  to  carry  the 
second  levee,  had  drawn  off  his  brigade.  In  the  meantime,  the 
enemy's  gun-boats,  four  in  number,  had  taken  position  so  as  to 


106  WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 

rake  the  open  space  between  the  second  levee  and  the  river 
with  grape  and  canister ;  and  had  our  men  succeeded  in  gain- 
ing the  open  space,  the  enemy,  by  retiring  to  the  water's  edge, 
would  have  given  their  gun-boats  complete  command  of  the 
position.  Under  such  circumstances  it  would  have  been  folly 
to  have  persisted  in  the  attack,  which  could  only  have  resulted 
in  a  fearful  sacrifice  of  life  ;  and  after  making  a  personal  recon- 
noissance  as  far  as  practicable,  and  otherwise  gaining  the  best 
information  possible,  I  determined  not  to  order  another  assault ; 
but  having  sent  off  the  wounded  and  rested  the  troops  for  sev- 
eral hours  near  the  battle-field,  in  the  cool  of  the  evening, 
I  determined  to  withdraw  the  two  brigades,  sending  McCul- 
loch's  back  to  this  place,  and  taking  post  with  Eandall's,  four 
miles  in  advance,  to  cover  the  road  along  which  General 
Haws'  Brigade  would  return  from  Young's  Point. 

In  regard  to  the  operations  of  the  brigade  of  the  last- 
named  officer,  I  have  only  to  remark  that  my  orders  to  him 
were  peremptory,  to  attack  the  enemy  at  Young's  Point.  Our 
information  of  the  strength  and  position  of  the  enemy  at 
that  place  was  so  recent,  and  was  thought  to  be  so  entirely 
reliable,  that  I  did  not  think  it  necessary  to  attach  any  con- 
ditions to  this  order.  The  failure  to  carry  out  my  instructions 
can  only  be  defended  by  the  existence  of  circumstances 
entirely  at  variance  with  those  supposed  to  exist,  and  upon 
which  the  order  was  based.  The  loss  of  several  precious 
hours  in  finding  a  bridge,  which  would  have  brought  on  the 
attack  in  the  heat  of  an  excessively  hot  day;  the  exhausted 
condition  of  the  men  who  would  have  gone  into  action  under 
a  burning  sun,  after  an  almost  continuous  march  of  nearly 
thirty  miles ;  the  strong  position  of  the  enemy,  defended  by 
three  gun-boats,  are  the  reasons  assigned  by  General  Haws 
for  assuming  the  responsibility  of  not  attacking  the  enemy's 
position.  From  what  I  know  of  Brigadier- General  Haws,  I 
am  satisfied  that  the  conviction  must  have  been  overpowering 
that  the  attack  would  fail,  after  a  useless  sacrifice  of  life,  or  he 
would  not  have  taken  the  responsibility  he  did. 

In  conclusion,  it  must  be  remembered  that  the  enemy,  be- 


WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  107 

hind  a  Mississippi  levee,  protected  on  the  flanks  by  gun-boats, 
is  as  securely  posted  as  it  is  possible  to  be,  outside  of  a  regu- 
lar fortification. 

(Signed,)  J.  G.  WALKER,  Major-General. 


THE  FEDERAL  REPORT  OF  THE  BATTLE  OF  MILLIKEN'S  BEND. 

To  Brigadier-Gen'l  THOMAS,  Adjutant-  General  of  the  Army  : 

GENERAL— I  have  the  honor  to  report  that,  in  accordance 
with  instructions  received  from  me,  Colonel  Leib,  commanding 
Ninth  Louisiana  A.  D.,  made  a  reconnoissance  in  the  direc- 
tion of  Eichmond,  on  June  6th,  starting  from  Milliken's  Bend 
at  2  o'clock,  A.  M. 

He  was  preceded  by  two  companies  of  the  Tenth  Illinois 
Cavalry,  commanded  by  Captain  Anderson,  whom  he  overtook 
three  miles  from  the  Bend. 

It  was  agreed  between  them  that  the  captain  should  take 
the  left  side  of  Walnut  Bayou,  and  pursue  it  as  far  as  Mrs. 
Ames'  plantation,  while  Colonel  Leib  proceeded  along  the 
main  Eichmond  road  to  the  railroad  depot,  three  miles  from 
Eichmond,  where  he  encountered  the  enemy's  pickets  and 
advance,  which  he  drove  in  with  but  little  opposition,  but, 
anticipating  the  enemy  in  strong  force,  retired  slowly  toward 
the  Bend. 

When  about  half-way  back,  a  squad  of  our  cavalry  came 
dashing  up  in  his  rear,  hotly  pursued  by  the  enemy.  Colonel 
Leib  immediately  formed  his  regiment  across  an  open  field, 
and  with  one  volley  dispersed  the  approaching  enemy.  Ex- 
pecting the  enemy  would  contest  the  passage  of  the  bridge 
over  Walnut  Bayou,  Colonel  Leib  fell  back  over  the  bridge, 
and  from  thence  to  Millikeri's  Bend,  from  whence  he  sent  a 
messenger,  informing  me  of  the  success  of  the  expedition, 
and  reported  the  enemy  to  be  advancing. 

I  immediately  started  the  Twenty-third  Iowa  Volunteer 
Infantry  to  their  assistance,  and  Admiral  Porter  ordered  the 
gun-boat  Choctaw  to  that  point.  At  three  o'clock,  the  fol- 


108  WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 

lowing  morning,  the  enemy  made  their  appearance  in  strong 
force  on  the  main  Richmond  road,  driving  the  pickets  before 
them.  The  enemy  advanced  on  the  left  of  our  line,  throwing 
out  no  skirmishers,  marching  in  close  column  by  division, 
with  a  strong  cavalry  force  on  his  right  flank. 

Our  forces,  consisting  of  the  Twenty-third  Iowa  Volunteer 
Infantry  and  the  African  Brigade — in  all,  1,061  men — opened 
upon  the  enemy  when  within  musket-shot  range,  which  made 
them  waver  and  recoil,  a  number  running  in  confusion  to  the 
rear.  The  balance,  pushing  on  with  intrepidity,  soon  reached 
the  levee,  when  they  were  ordered  to  charge,  with  the  cries  of 
"No  quarter!" 

The  African  regiments  being  inexperienced  in  the  use  of 
arms,  some  of  them  having  been  drilled  but  a  few  days,  and 
the  guns  being  very  inferior,  the  enemy  succeeded  in  getting 
upon  our  works  before  more  than  one  or  two  volleys  were 
fired  at  them.  Here  ensued  a  most  terrible  hand-to-hand  con- 
flict of  several  minutes'  duration,  our  men  using  the  bayonet 
freely,  and  clubbing  their  guns  with  fierce  obstinacy,  contest- 
ing every  inch  of  ground,  until  the  enemy  succeeded  in  flank- 
ing them,  and  poured  a  murderous  enfilading  fire  along  our 
lines,  directing  their  fire  chiefly  to  the  officers,  who  fell  in 
great  numbers. 

Not  till  they  were  overpowered  and  forced  by  superior 
numbers,  did  our  men  fall  back  behind  the  bank  of  the  river, 
at  the  same  time  pouring  volley  after  volley  into  the  ranks  of 
the  advancing  enemy.  The  gun-boat  now  moved  into  posi- 
tion, and  fired  a  broadside  into  the  enemy,  who  immediately 
disappeared  behind  the  levee,  but  all  the  time  keeping  up  a 
fire  upon  our  men.  The  enemy  at  this  time  appeared  to  be 
extending  his  line  to  the  extreme  right,  but  was  held  in  check 
by  two  companies  of  the  Eleventh  Louisiana  Infantry  A.  D., 
which  had  been  posted  behind  cotton-bales,  and  part  of  the 
old  levee.  In  this  position  the  fight  continued  until  near 
noon,  when  the  enemy  suddenly  withdrew. 

Our  men,  seeing  this  movement,  advanced  upon  the  retreat- 
ing column,  firing  volley  after  volley  at  them  while  they 


WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  109 

remained  within  gun-shot.  The  gun-boat  Lexington  then 
paid  her  compliments  to  the  flying  foe,  in  several  well-direct- 
ed shots,  scattering  them  in  ah1  directions.  I  here  desire  to 
express  my  thanks  to  the  officers  and  men  of  the  gun-boats 
Choctaw  and  Lexington,  for  their  efficient  services  in  time  of 
need.  Their  services  will  be  long  remembered  by  the  officers 
and  men  of  the  African  Brigade,  for  their  valuable  assistance 
on  that  dark  and  bloody  field.  The  officers  and  men  deserve 
the  highest  praise  for  their  gallant  conduct.  The  enemy  con- 
sisted of  one  brigade,  numbering  about  twenty-five  hundred, 
in  command  of  General  McCulloch,  and  two  hundred  cavalry. 
The  enemy's  loss  is  estimated  at  150  killed,  and  300  wounded. 
It  is  impossible  to  get  at  anything  near  the  loss  of  the  enemy, 
as  they  carried  killed  and  wounded  off  in  ambulances. 
Among  their  killed  is  Colonel  Allen  of  Texas.*  Our  loss  in 
killed,  wounded,  and  missing,  amounts  to  652. 

Submitting  the  foregoing,  I  remain  yours  respectfully, 

(Signed,)  ELLIS  S.  DENNIS, 

Brigadier-General  Commanding. 

*  Now  teaching  military  school  in  Kentucky. 


1.10  WALKEB'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 


CHAPTEE  XV. 


RETREAT  FROM  RICHMOND. — GALLANT  CONDUCT  OF  THE  18TH  INFANTRY 
AND  EDGAR'S  BATTERY. — HEROISM  OF  A  PRIVATE  SOLDIER. — TAPPAN'S 
BRIGADE  TO  THE  RESCUE. — ARRIVAL  AT  DELHI. 


FTEB  the  battle  of  Milliken's  Bend,  we  remained  en- 
camped near  Richmond  until  the  morning  of  the 
15th  (in  the  mean  time  our  wounded  and  sick  men 
were  sent  to  Monroe).  "When  our  pickets  were  driven  in  by 
the  enemy,  General  Walker  immediately  formed  the  division 
in  line  of  battle ;  at  the  same  time  he  ordered  the  18th  In- 
fantry, under  command  of  Colonel  Culbertson,  to  take  position 
at  the  upper  crossing,  about  a  mile  north  of  Richmond,  with 
instructions  to  hold  the  crossing  at  all  hazards  until  he  could 
get  his  wagon-train  out  of  the  way.  Captain  Edgar,  having 
charged  his  guns  with  grape  and  canister,  ordered  six  rounds 
of  ammunition  to  be  placed  alongside  of  each  gun.  This 
having  been  accomplished,  he  ordered  his  men  to  conceal 
themselves  as  much  as  possible  until  he  ordered  them  into 
action. 

Presently,  the  enemy  emerges  out  of  the  woods,  and  ad- 
vances in  martial  array,  their  banners  floating  on  the  breeze, 
as  if  they  were  on  parade.  Colonel  Culbertson  passes  along 
the  line,  speaking  words  of  cheer  to  his  men,  telling  them 
that  the  safety  of  the  entire  division  was  intrusted  to  them,  and 
ordering  their  bayonets  to  be  fixed.  They  stood  like  a  stone 
wall,  awaiting  the  approach  of  the  enemy.  On  they  came, 
like  a  huge  avalanche  pouring  across  the  valley.  It  seemed 
to  be  a  race  with  them,  which  of  their  regiments  should  be 
the  most  successful  in  capturing  the  rebel  battery.  Closer 
they  came,  until  they  got  within  about  one  hundred  and  fifty 


WALKERS  TEXAS  DIVISION.  Ill 

yards,  when  Captain  Edgar  ordered  his  men  to  be  up  and  at 
them.  Eight  manfully  did  his  men  go  into  action,  handling 
their  guns  with  alacrity  and  cheerfulness,  throwing  grape  and 
canister  amongst  them,  and  slaying  them  by  hundreds.  The 
ground  was  covered  with  their  dead  and  wounded.  Captain 
Edgar's  men  were  playing  havoc  amongst  them.  The  18th 
Texas  Infantry,  commanded  by  the  brave  and  fearless  Colonel 
Culbertson,  crossed  the  bayou  and  charged  the  enemy  at  the 
point  of  the  bayonet,  driving  them  pell-mell  into  the  timber. 
They  were  panic-stricken,  as  they  never  stopped  to  resist  the 
charge  of  the  brave  500.  Although  their  numbers  exceeded 
18,000,  under  command  of  one  of  their  ablest  generals,  Gen- 
eral Davis,  they  anticipated  that  they  were  ambushed.  Get- 
ting into  the  timber,  they  finally  rallied.  In  the  mean  time 
Colonel  Culbertson  withdrew  his  regiment  across  the  bayou 
again,  and  rejoined  the  balance  of  the  division.  This  charge 
made  by  the  18th  Infantry  will  compare  favorably  with  any 
regimental  charge  that  has  ever  been  recorded.  Too  much 
praise  cannot  be  awarded  to  Colonel  Culbertson  and  Captain 
Edgar  and  their  men  for  their  gallantry  and  cool  presence  of 
mind  on  this  occasion.  The  division  fell  back  to  Bayou 
Macon  on  the  arrival  of  Colonel  Culbertson's  Eegiment  and 
Captain  Edgar's  Battery. 

General  Walker  anticipated  that  the  enemy  would  follow 
him  up  as  soon  as  they  got  over  their  fright.  Once  across 
Bayou  Macon,  General  Walker  contemplated  giving  battle. 
As  was  expected,  the  enemy's  cavalry  followed  us  up  to  Bayou 
Macon.  Our  rear-guard  skirmished  with  them  from  Round- 
away  Bayou  up  to  within  a  few  hundred  yards  of  the  crossing 
of  the  bayou. 

One  of  their  officers,  more  persevering  or  braver  than  the 
balance  of  them,  advanced  ahead  of  their  main  column.  He 
came  in  contact  with  one  of  our  soldiers  who  was  tired  and 
unable  to  keep  up  with  the  main  body  of  our  troops.  He 
was  ordered  by  the  officer  to  surrender,  whereupon  he  or- 
dered the  officer  to  surrender  to  him.  Neither  would  sur- 
render to  the  other ;  consequently  they  commenced  firing  at 


112  WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 

each  other.  The  private  soldier  proved  to  be  the  best  shot, 
as  he  killed  the  officer.  He  took  possession  of  the  officer's 
horse  and  accouterments,  and  continued  his  march  to  camp. 
He  arrived  in  camp  in  due  time,  and  was  highly  compliment- 
ed by  his  officers  for  his  bravery.  After  crossing  Bayou 
Macon  we  camped  for  the  night,  having  marched  ten  miles. 

During  the  greatest  portion  of  the  night  we  remained  under 
arms  and  in  line  of  battle.  It  was  generally  believed  among 
the  troops,  that  the  enemy  would  attempt  to  cross  the  bayou 
during  the  night. 

On  the  morning  of  the  16th  we  learned,  much  to  our  sur- 
prise, that  the  enemy  had  fallen  back  towards  Milliken's 
Bend.  We  took  up  the  line  of  march  for  the  town  of  Delhi. 
While  on  the  march  we  met  General  Tappan's  Brigade  of 
Arkansians,  on  a  forced  march,  coming  to  our  "  rescue."  They 
informed  us  that  they  heard  a  great  many  of  "  Walker's  Grey- 
hounds "  had  been  captured  by  the  enemy.  After  assuring 
them  that  the  greyhounds  were  too  quick  for  the  enemy,  they 
became  reconciled.  After  marching  twelve  miles  we  camped 
for  the  night. 

On  the  17th  the  march  was  resumed.  After  marching 
seven  miles  we  encamped  near  a  spring  of  fine  water,  north- 
east of  the  town  of  Delhi,  the  terminus  of  the  railroad  built 
from  the  town  of  Monroe.  We  remained  at  this  camp  until 
the  morning  of  the  22d. 


WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  113 


CHAPTER  XVI. 

MARCH  FROM  DELHI  IN  THE  DIRECTION  OP  GOODRICH'S  LANDING. — TEXAS 
CAVALRY. — CAPTURE  OF  FORT  MOUND. — RETURN  TO  DELHI. — THE  AP- 
PEARANCE OF  THE  TROOPS. — FALL  OF  VICKSBURG. — SURMISES  ABOUT 
THE  SURRENDER  OF  VICKSBURG. — ON  THE  CARS. — ARRIVAL  AT  MONROE. 

% 

the  morning  of  the  22d,  the  march  was  resumed  in 
the  direction  of  Goodrich's  Landing,  on  the  Missis- 
sippi Eiver,  where  the  enemy  was  supposed  to  be 
intrenched.  After  marching  twelve  miles,  we  camped  near 
the  village  of  Monticello,  on  Bayou  Macon. 

May  23d.  Marched  ten  miles.  Our  march  to-day  lay 
through  a  pleasant  valley,  bordered  on  each  side  by  the  green 
forest  trees.  We  passed  by  once-pleasant  homesteads,  already 
desolated  by  war ;  green  fields,  and  orchards  in  full  bloom, 
despite  the  desolation  and  ruin  around  them.  After  cross- 
ing the  Tens  as  Eiver,  we  camped  on  its  banks  until  the  morn- 
ing of  the  26th,  when  we  took  up  the  line  of  march  back  the 
way  we  came ;  marched  fourteen  miles  and  camped. 

May  27th.  Marched  eight  miles  up  Bayou  Macon,  and 
camped. 

May  28th.  Early  this  morning  we  resumed  our  march ; 
left  Bayou  Macon  and  marched  back  again  four  miles  in  the 
direction  of  Goodrich's  Landing,  between  Milliken's  Bend 
and  Lake  Providence,  on  the  Mississippi  Eiver.  While  on 
the  march,  we  met  Colonel  Parsons'  Brigade  of  Cavalry,  com- 
ing from  the  direction  of  Gains'  Landing.  As  they  passed 
by  us,  I  could  not  but  admire  their  horsemanship ;  they  all 
appeared  to  be  excellent  horsemen,  and  at  a  distance  their 
general  appearance  was  decidedly  showy  and  gallant.  Their 
uniform  contained  as  many  colors  as  the  rainbow  ;  their  arms 
consisted  mostly  of  Enfield  rifles,  slung  to  their  saddles,  while 


114 

around  the  waist  of  each  was  buckled  a  heavy  cavalry  sword, 
which  clattered  at  every  movement  of  their  horses.  A  pair 
of  holster  pistols  attached  to  the  pommels  of  their  saddles 
completed  their  equipment. 

A  short  distance  from  Goodrich's  Landing,  the  cavalry 
came  across  a  fort,  built  on  an  Indian  mound — one  of  the 
"  high  places,"  where  aborigines  worshiped  or  made  mauso- 
leums for  their  dead.  It  towers  above  the  roofs  of  houses, 
and  looks  down  upon  the  negro  cabins  like  a  mountain  in  the 
dead  level  of  the  surrounding  marsh  and  swamp.  Traditions 
claim  that  this  section  of  the  country  has  been  the  hunting- 
ground  of  the  Choctaws,  an  old  confederacy  of  red  tribes, 
who  once  possessed  the  lower  Mississippi  lands,  beginning 
with  the  "Houmas,"  near  the  coast,  and  numbering  many 
clans,  whose  very  names  are  now  forgotten.  These  clans  or 
tribes  built  their  forts  from  Bayou  Boauf  to  the  Arkansas 
River,  ranging  across  the  Teche  and  Atchafalaya  Bayous, 
and  through  all  the  beautiful  Attakapas  country.  They 
waged  a  fierce  and  determined  war  against  the  French  for 
nearly  a  century,  before  their  remnants,  broken  and  disheart- 
ened, migrated  to  the  wilderness  far  beyond  the  Mississippi, 
and  were  ultimately  lost  amidst  the  predatory  hordes  which 
roved  around  the  bases  of  the  Sierra  Madre. 

This  fort  or  mound,  near  Goodrich's  Landing,  was  gar- 
risoned by  negro  troops  for  the  purpose  of  raiding  and  de- 
stroying everything  that  could  assist  any  of  our  troops.  They 
devoted  their  time,  headed  by  their  officers  (white  men),  in 
burning  private  residences,  corn-cribs,  cotton,  etc. 

On  the  arrival  of  the  cavalry  at  the  fort,  they  waited  some 
time  for  General  "Randall's  Brigade.  As  soon  as  they  arrived, 
both  forces  surrounded  the  fort,  and  demanded  the  surrender 
of  the  same.  The  enemy  at  first  refused  to  surrender,  but 
seeing  the  position  of  our  troops,  ready  to  carry  the  place  at 
the  point  of  the  bayonet,  they  finally  surrendered  to  our 
forces,  conditionally.  The  garrison  consisted  of  1,200  negro 
troops  and  twelve  white  officers.  After  the  surrender,  we 
remained  encamped  near  the  fort  until  the  morning  of  the 


WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  115 

30th,  when  we  took  up  the  line  of  march  back  again  to  our 
old  camping-ground  at  Delhi.  After  marching  twenty  miles 
we  camped  on  Bayou  Macon  for  the  night. 

May  31st.  Marched  four  miles,  and  arrived  at  our  old  camp- 
ground. 

"While  we  remained  encamped  in  the  Mississippi  bottoms, 
Falstaff's  ragged  regiment  was  well  uniformed  in  comparison 
with  our  troops.  No  two  were  costumed  with  any  attempt  at 
uniformity,  and  each  individual  stood  forth  a  decided  char- 
acter. But  few  of  the  troops  had  shaved  for  weeks,  and,  as  a 
consequence,  there  was  a  large  and  general  assortment  of 
unbrushed  black,  gray,  red,  and  sandy  beards,  as  well  as  fero- 
cious mustaches  and  whiskers — enough  to  rig  out  an  army  of 
West  India  buccaneers.  A  more  brigandish  set  of  Anglo- 
Saxon  forces  has  never  been  collected.  Then  as  to  costume, 
it  is  utterly  impossible  to  paint  the  variety  our  division  pre- 
sented. Here  would  be  a  fellow  dressed  in  homespun  pants, 
with  the  knees  out  of  them  ;  on  his  head  might  be  stuck  the 
remnant  of  a  straw  hat,  while  a  faded  Texas  penitentiary 
cloth  jacket  would  perhaps  complete  his  outfit.  His  neighbor, 
very  likely,  was  arrayed  in  breeches  made  out  of  some  cast- 
off  blanket,  with  a  dyed  shirt  as  black  as  the  ace  of  spades, 
and  no  hat  at  all.  Then  would  come  a  man  with  a  woolen 
hat  made  like  a  pyramid,  sitting  jauntily  upon  his  head,  while, 
to  introduce  his  style  of  hat,  he  had  it  covered  over  with 
assorted  buttons ;  and,  to  top  the  climax,  had  a  red  tassel 
sewed  on  top.  Notwithstanding  his  gaudy  hat,  a  part  of  a 
shirt,  and  occasional  fragments  only  of  what  had  once  been 
a  pair  of  military  pantaloons,  made  up  the  rest  of  his  attire. 
But,  singular  as  it  may  seem,  there  could  hardly  be  found  a 
merrier,  I  might  be  going  too  far  in  saying  a  happier,  set  of 
men  in  Christendom.  Our  very  looks  bred  good  humor  ;  for 
there  was  something  irresistibly  ludicrous  in  the  appearance 
of  each  man — a  quaint  solemnity  and  droll  gravity  of  coun- 
tenance, which  would  elicit  some  facetious  and  good-natured 
remark  from  his  neighbor.  The  comic  and  eccentric  were 
strangely  mingled  with  the  tragic  and  melodramatic ;  but 


116  WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 

the  former  predominated  to  a  degree  that  completely  stifled 
any  pathetic  feelings  which  might  otherwise  have  arisen,  and 
induced  us  to  laugh  rather  than  cry  at  the  forlorn  but  fan- 
tastic figure  each  one  presented  in  the  moving  panorama. 

So  completely  disguised  were  we  all,  that  I  doubt  whether 
our  anxious  mothers  would  have  recognized  us;  and  even 
could  they,  by  some  well-remembered  mark,  have  detected 
an  errant  son,  methinks  they  would  have  been  slow  to  ac- 
knowledge one  who  had  wandered  so  far  from  their  hearth- 
stone as  to  have  lost  their  very  identity. 

We  remained  at  our  camp  at  Delhi,  awaiting  the  long-looked- 
for  "  Fourth  of  July,"  which,  according  to  the  enemy's  report, 
was  to  decide  the  fate  of  Yicksburg.  Bets  of  Confederate  money 
were  freely  exchanged  amongst  the  troops,  regarding  the  fate 
of  the  doomed  city.  On  the  night  of  the  3d  of  July,  pretty 
much  all  the  members  of  our  division,  for  curiosity's  sake, 
remained  awake  all  night  to  listen  to  the  cannonading,  which 
could  be  distinctly  heard  from  our  camp.  As  the  hours  flew 
by,  the  sentries  on  post  would  cry  out,  "11  o'clock,  and  Vicks- 
burg  all  right !"  and  so  on,  during  the  hours  of  the  night. 
Morning  at  last  dawned,  and  still  the  cannonading  continued, 
up  till  the  hour  of  7  o'clock,  when  we  heard  the  report  of 
about  a  dozen  shots  in  rapid  succession.  A  gloom  of  sad- 
ness appeared  to  have  come  over  the  troops.  Some  of  the 
men  accounted  for  the  rapid  firing  by  remarking,  that  the 
Yankees  were  celebrating  the  "  Fourth  of  July  "  in  the  old 
style  of  by -gone  days,  but  the  general  belief  among  the  troops 
was,  that  Vicksburg  was  in  possession  of  the  enemy ;  which 
proved,  alas !  too  true.  It  was  not  until  the  morning  of  the 
7th  that  we  knew,  for  certain,  the  fate  of  Yicksburg.  Our 
first  information  (outside  of  the  Yankee  sources)  was  from  a 
parolled  officer  that  had  just  arrived  at  Delhi.  Even  then  it 
was  not  credited  by  General  Walker,  as  he  immediately  had 
the  officer  arrested  and  put  under  guard,  until  he  was  recog- 
nized by  some  of  the  leading  citizens  of  Delhi,  when  be  was 
released  from  custody. 

As  soon  as  it  became  known  for  certain,  in  camp,  that  Vicks- 


WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  117 

burg  had  surrendered,  a  perfect  storm  of  indignation  burst 
forth  among  the  troops.  "What !  surrender,  and  that  too  on 
the  4th  of  July,  above  all  other  days  ?  Impossible.  The  men 
broke  forth  in  bitter  denunciation  of  Lieutenant-General  Pem- 
berton,  boldly  proclaiming  that  he  had  sold  it  to  the  enemy. 
Surrender  on  the  4th  of  July  !  Why  should  that  day,  of  all 
others,  be  chosen  for  our  humiliation  ?  The  Southern  soldier 
preferred  dying — a  thousand  times  preferable — to  making  the 
National  anniversary  a  thrice  memorable  natal  day,  and  give 
to  the  United  States  a  new  impulse  for  prosecuting  the  war. 
Would  it  not  be  received  as  a  good  omen,  and  infuse  a  new 
spirit  into  the  efforts  of  the  foe  for  our  subjugation  ?  Such 
were  some  of  the  fierce  denunciations  used,  whether  justly 
or  not,  the  world  has  never  discovered.  'Yet  it  seems  scarcely 
possible,  or  probable,  that  General  Pemberton  could  have 
been  actuated  by  such  perfidious  motives. 

But  the  question  is  asked  by  the  author  of  this  work,  How 
did  the  prisoners  that  were  captured  at  Milliken's  Bend  and 
Young's  Point,  nearly  a  month  previous  to  the  fall  of  Yicks- 
burg,  know  about  the  circumstances  ?  Kind  reader,  bear  with 
me  a  little  further,  and  I  will  endeavor  to  substantiate  proof 
that  the  surrender  of  Yicksburg  was  a  premeditated  affair 
between  the  Federal  and  Confederate  commanders. 

The  writer  of  this  book  had  occasion  to  pay  a  visit  to 
Colonel  Gregg  of  the  16th  Dismounted  Cavalry,  who  was 
seriously  wounded  at  Milliken's  Bend,  and  then  lying  in  hos- 
pital at  Eichmond.  On  the  gallery  of  the  hospital  was  seated 
Lieutenant-Colonel  Baxter,  of  the  28th  Dismounted  Cavalry, 
and  a  Yankee  officer  (belonging,  I  believe,  to  the  2d  Illinois 
Cavalry),  in  conversation  about  the  war.  I  was  cordially  in- 
vited to  take  a  seat.  During  the  conversation,  the  Yankee 
officer  (who  was  captured  at  Milliken's  Bend)  informed 
Colonel  Baxter  that  General  Pemberton  would  certainly  sur- 
render Yicksburg  on  the  morning  of  the  4th  of  July.  If  it 
did  not  prove  true,  he,  the  Yankee  officer,  was  willing  to  wear 
a  ball  and  chain  during  the  war.  On  the  contrary,  if  his 
remarks  proved  true,  he  wanted  Colonel  Baxter  to  use  his 


118  WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 

influence  in  setting  him  at  liberty.  Ponder,  gentle  reader,  on 
those  remarks,  and  what  is  your  verdict  ?  Then,  again,  take 
the  surrender  of  Vicksburg  in  general,  and  the  causes  attached 
to  it.  Was  not  General  Pemberton  guilty  of  gross  neglect  of 
duty  in  two  ways?  1st.  In  not  fortifying  Yicksburg  so  as  to 
resist  an  attack  from  the  rear  with  the  least  possible  loss  of 
life.  2d.  In  not  procuring  supplies  for  the  garrison  sufficient 
to  make  a  protracted  defense  in  case  of  a  siege.  This  is  the 
great  and  chief  cause  of  complaint.  Immense  quantities  of 
supplies  could  have  been  got  in  the  Yazoo  Yalley ;  yet  no 
efforts  were  made  to  obtain  these  supplies,  or  to  transport 
them  to  Yicksburg,  although  it  was  known  that  General  Grant 
was  making  strenuous  exertions  to  cross  the  Mississippi  Eiver 
and  attack  Yicksburg  from  the  rear,  and  might  succeed  at 
any  moment.  Again,  the  large  quantities  of  supplies  which 
accumulated  at  Snyder's  Mills  were  allowed  to  remain  there, 
and  were  eventually  destroyed.  These  are  indisputable  facts, 
and  are  placed  on  record  as  necessary  to  the  completeness  of 
the  history  concerning  the  siege  and  fall  of  Yicksburg. 

On  the  morning  of  the  7th,  we  took  up  the  line  of  march,  up 
Bayou  Macon  again,  to  Monticello,  for  what  purpose  I  am  un- 
able to  say,  unless  it  was  to  quiet  the  excitement  in  camp 
about  the  fall  of  Yicksburg,  Marched  eleven  miles  and  camped 
on  Bayou  Macon  until  the  next  morning,  when  we  marched 
back  again  to  our  camp  at  Delhi,  and  remained  there  until 
the  beginning  of  the  llth,  when  we  bade  adieu  to  our  old 
camp,  and  went  aboard  the  railroad  cars  bound  for  the  town 
of  Monroe,  distant  forty  miles.  We  arrived  at  Monroe  at 
1  o'clock,  P.M.  On  our  arrival  we  marched  through  the  prin- 
cipal streets  of  the  town,  to  see  and  be  seen  by  the  ladies. 
After  our  promenading  we  encamped  about  half  a  mile  south 
of  the  town,  on  the  banks  of  the  Washita  Eiver,  until  the  fol- 
lowing morning.  The  town  of  Monroe  has  one  long,  broad, 
handsome  street,  and  many  cross  streets,  shaded  by  trees  and 
adorned  with  fine  mansions.  Before  the  war  it  was  a  great 
cotton  mart,  and  the  plantations  around  are  very  productive 
and  well  adapted  to  grow  the  raw  material. 


WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  119 


CHAPTEE  XVII. 

GENERAL    WALKER'S   REPORT    OF    THE    OPERATIONS    OF    HIS 
DIVISION  IN  MADISON  AND  CARROLL  PARISHES. 

Lieut.-Colonel  S.  S.  ANDERSON,  A.  A.  General  T.  M.  Depart- 
ment : 


Y  direction  of  the  Lieutenant-General  commanding  the 
Department,  and  for  his  information,  I  have  the 
honor  to  lay  before  you  the  following  report  of  the 
operations  of  my  division  in  the  parishes  of  Madison  and  Car- 
roll, opposite  Vicksburg,  Mississippi.  In  order  to  a  better  un- 
derstanding of  the  subject,  I  include  in  this  review  the  opera- 
tions of  the  division  previous  to  the  departure  of  Major-Gen- 
eral Taylor  to  Alexandria,  after  the  partial  failure  of  the  attack 
upon  Milliken's  Bend,  on  the  7th  of  June  last,  up  to  which 
time,  he  being  present,  I  was  acting  under  his  immediate 
orders.  Marching  from  Alexandria  on  the  27th,  28th,  and 
29th  of  May,  the  brigades  of  McCulloch,  Eandall,  and  Haws 
were  embarked  on  board  transports  at  Le  Croix  ferry,  on 
Little  Kiver,  on  the  28th,  29th,  and  30th,  respectively,  and  pro- 
ceeded down  Little  Eiver  to  its  junction  with  the  Ouachita 
and  Tensas ;  ascended  the  latter  to  the  mouth  of  De  Eossel 
Bayou,  where  McCulloch's  Brigade,  which  was  accompanied 
by  Major-General  Taylor,  debarked  on  the  afternoon  of  the 
30th,  and  immediately  took  up  its  line  of  march  for  Perkins' 
Landing,  on  the  Mississippi,  six  miles  below  New  Carthage. 
Early  the  next  morning,  I  arrived  with  Eandall's  Brigade,  and 
proceeded  with  it  towards  the  same  point,  where  it  was  known 
the  enemy  had  a  camp  of  instruction  and  insurrection  for 
negroes,  which  it  was  hoped  General  McCulloch  would  be  able 
to  surprise  and  capture.  The  delay,  however,  in  constructing 


120  WALKEK'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 

a  bridge  over  De  Kossel  Bayou,  and  an  entire  want  of  cavalry 
to  cover  our  movements,  enabled  the  enemy  to  escape  upon 
his  transports.  General  McCulloch  reached  the  Mississippi, 
barely  in  time  to  enable  his  artillery  to  send  a  few  shots  into 
the  enemy's  transports  as  they  left  the  landing.  Upon  coming 
up  with  Randall's  Brigade,  I  found  the  point  evacuated,  and 
two  gun-boats  anchored  off  the  site  of  the  abandoned  camp. 
Here,  being  entirely  destitute  of  cavalry  and  guides,  and  be- 
ing entirely  ignorant  of  the  topography  of  the  country,  it  was 
impracticable  to  proceed  further. 

General  Taylor  had,  as  he  informed  me,  directed  the  cav- 
alry of  Colonel  Harrison  to  meet  us  at  the  point  of  de- 
barkation, but  for  some  reason  they  did  not  reach  us.  As 
Harrison's  men  were  mostly  residents  of  this  very  region,  and 
as  we  confidently  expected  its  co-operation,  no*'  other  guides 
had  been  provided  ;  and.  as  the  country  was  entirely  deserted, 
none  could  be  procured.  Haws'  Brigade  having  arrived  during 
the  night  of  the  31st,  the  whole  division  was  crossed  over  to 
the  west  bank  of  the  Tensas,  and  proceeded  across  to  Bayou 
Macon,  ascending  its  left  bank  to  the  intersection  of  the  road 
leading  from  Delhi  to  Eichmond ;  received  their  much-needed 
subsistence  from  the  former  point,  constructed  a  trestle  bridge 
across  the  Tensas,  and  crossed  that  river  on  the  6th  of  June, 
and  the  same  evening  reached  Eichmond,  which,  two  days  be- 
fore, had  been  taken  possession  of  by  a  squadron  of  Harrison's 
Cavalry,  which  had  joined  us  on  Bayou  Macon.  At  Eichmond, 
we  intersected  the  road  by  which  Grant's  army  had  passed 
below  Yicksburg,  and  by  which,  until  recently,  he  had  drawn 
all  his  reinforcements  and  supplies,  but  which  was  now  no 
longejr  used,  as  the  fall  of  the  water  and  the  drying  up  of  the 
swamps  gave  the  enemy  a  much  shorter  line  from  Young's 
Point  to  Bedford's,  opposite  Warrenton,  Mississippi.  A  few 
weeks  previous  to  our  coming,  the  enemy's  operations  could 
have  been  seriously  embarrassed  by  cutting  his  line  of  com- 
munication at  Eichmond,  but  the  golden  opportunity  had 
passed.  The  opening  of  the  Yazoo  Eiver  enabled  the  enemy's 
army  to  draw  their  supplies  from  the  Upper  Mississippi,  and 


WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  121 

land  them  at  Snyder's  Bluff,  to  the  rear  of  Vicksburg.  On  the 
6th  of  June,  I  was  directed  by  General  Taylor  to  attack,  with 
McCulloch's  Brigade,  the  enemy's  position  at  Milliken's  Bend, 
distant  from  Kichmond  about  twelve  miles ;  and,  simultane- 
ously, Brig.-General  Haws  was  ordered  to  attack  the  enemy  at 
Young's  Point,  twenty  miles  distant,  while  I  was  directed  by 
General  Taylor  to  remain  at  a  point  between  the  two  places 
with  Randall's  Brigade,  in  order  to  reinforce  either  the  one  or 
the  other,  as  circumstances  might  require.  Brig.-General 
McCulloch  gallantly  attacked  the  enemy  at  Milliken's  Bend, 
about  daylight,  on  the  7th ;  drove  him  from  all  his  positions,  as 
far  as  the  river-bank,  where  a  second  levee  was  encountered 
(behind  which  the  enemy  rallied,  supported  by  four  gun-boats, 
three  of  which  arrived  during  the  progress  of  the  action),  from 
which  the  efforts  of  our  brave  men,  led  by  their  gallant  com- 
mander, were  unable  to  dislodge  him ;  and,  after  suffering  a  loss 
of  nearly  two  hundred  in  killed  and  wounded,  and  our  men 
being  no  longer  able  to  continue  the  contest,  from  sheer  exhaus- 
tion, produced  by  extreme  heat  and  want  of  water,  General 
McCulloch  withdrew  his  brigade  in  perfect  order,  bringing  off 
his  wounded.  At  this  moment,  I  arrived  upon  the  field  with 
Randall's  Brigade,  and  finding  McCulloch's  men  no  longer  in 
a  condition  to  afford  any  assistance,  should  the  attack  be  re- 
newed by  Randall's  Brigade,  and  that  the  enemy  was  being 
constantly  reinforced  by  transports  coming  from  below,  and 
that  his  position  was  an  exceedingly  strong  one,  which  would 
cost  us  a  heavy  loss  to  carry,  for  which  in  my  judgment,  success 
would  be  an  inadequate  compensation,  I  determined,  there- 
fore, not  to  renew  the  assault.  I  remained,  however,  in  the 
immediate  vicinity  of  the  enemy's  position  until  night,  destroyed 
the  gin-houses,  and  drove  off  the  stock  belonging  to  the  cot- 
ton plantations  that  were  being  cultivated  by  lessees  of  the 
Federal  government. 

The  enemy's  loss  in  this  engagement,  I  have  reason  to  be- 
lieve, amounts  to  at  least  eight  hundred,  in  killed  and  wounded. 
"We  captured  about  sixty  negro  soldiers,  with  two  white  officers 
who  commanded  them,  sixtv  or  seventy  stand  of  arms,  and 


122  WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 

two  hundred  head  of  horses  and  mules,  and  a  number  of 
cattle. 

In  the  mean  time,  nothing  was  known  of  Brig.-General 
Haws'  operations ;  but,  during  the  night  I  received  intelligence 
that  he  was  on  his  return,  without  having  attacked  the 
enemy  at  Young's  Point,  as  directed.  Upon  his  rejoining 
me  on  the  following  morning,  he  reported  that  his  march  to 
Young's  Point  was  delayed  several  hours  by  the  incompetence 
of  his  guides,  and  that,  in  consequence,  instead  of  reaching  the 
point  to  be  attacked  at  daylight,  as  intended,  he  did  not  reach  it 
until  half-past  ten  o'clock  in  the  morning  ;  and  that  the  exces- 
sive heat  of  the  day,  the  want  of  water,  and  a  march  of  thirty 
miles,  continued  for  twenty-eight  hours  without  sleep  and  but 
little  rest,  had  so  exhausted  his  troops  as  to  have  rendered  hope- 
less any  attack  upon  the  enemy's  fortified  position. 

Major-General  Taylor's  instructions  to  me,  delivered  to 
Brig.-General  Haws,  were  imperative  to  make  the  attack, 
but  I  am  convinced  from  what  I  know  of  the  state  of  exhaus- 
tion resulting  from  excessive  heat  and  fatigue,  that  General 
Haws'  men  were  incapable  of  the  physical  exertion  necessary  to 
carry  a  fortified  position  defended  on  the  flanks  by  gun-boats. 
How  far  these  considerations  justify  a  failure  to  obey  an  un- 
conditional and  imperative  order,  I  am  not  prepared  to  say. 

In  my  frequent  interviews  and  conferences  with  Major-Gen- 
eral  Taylor,  on  the  subject  of  relieving  Yicksburg,  he  always 
expressed  the  utmost  anxiety,  which  was  fully  shared  by  my- 
self and  my  command,  to  strike  a  blow  that  would  bear  directly 
upon  the  conduct  of  the  siege,  with  the  small  force  at  his  dis- 
posal, numbering  less  than  five  thousand  effective  men  upon 
leaving  Alexandria — reduced,  on  the  8th  of  June,  by  sickness, 
resulting  from  excessive  heat,  bad  water,  malarious  climate, 
and  the  casualties  of  battle,  to  something  less  than  four  thou- 
sand. After  that  date,  General  Taylor  considered  that,  with 
this  small  force,  no  material  aid  could  be  afforded  the  garrison 
at  Yicksburg.  The  justice  of  these  views,  I  think,  will  be 
better  appreciated  from  an  examination  of  the  topography  of 
the  country  opposite  Yicksburg. 


WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  123 


It  will  be  seen  that,  in  marching  into  the  peninsula  at  the 
extremity  of  which  Yicksburg  is  situated,  the  route  is  parallel 
to  the  Mississippi,  both  above  and  below  the  point  to  be 
reached,  and  that  a  small  force  once  east  of  Young's  Point 
and  Warrenton,  would  inevitably  be  cut  off  from  returning. 
The  forces  of  the  enemy  at  Young's  Point,  which,  since  Gen- 
eral Haws'  demonstrations,  have  been  considerable,  could  be 
increased  to  any  extent  in  a  few  hours,  and  would  have  but 
two  or  three  miles  to  march,  by  a  good  road  leading  along 
Walnut  Bayou,  and  intersecting  the  road  leading  towards 
Yicksburg,  and  by  which  we  would  be  compelled  to  march. 
Nearly  the  same  is  true  in  regard  to  Bedford,  nearly  opposite 
which  the  left  of  Grant's  army  rests.  But,  suppose  we  could  have 
eluded  the  vigilance  of  the  negro  spies — and  the  country  in  that 
region  is  filled  with  them — and  the  watchfulness  of  the  enemy's 
scouts  and  pickets,  which,  since  our  attack  upon  Milliken's 
Bend,  have  been  doubly  on  the  alert,  we  would  still  encounter 
an  insuperable  obstacle  to  our  further  progress,  at  the  canal 
dug  by  the  enemy  across  the  peninsula.  This  canal,  not  more 
than  a  mile  and  quarter  in  length,  effectually  bars  the  ap- 
proach of  even  a  much  larger  force  than  ours  to  the  river-bank 
opposite  Yicksburg,  and  a  delay  of  only  a  few  hours  at  the 
canal  would  draw  upon  the  rear  of  our  small  force  such  an 
attack  as  would  result  inevitably  in  our  destruction  or  capture. 
These  considerations  seemed  so  just,  that  I  was  directed  by  Gen- 
eral Taylor  to  withdraw  my  division  to  Alexandria,  by  way  of 
Monroe,  as  soon  as  steamboat  transportation  could  be  procured 
at  the  latter  place.  Accordingly,  Randall's  Brigade  left  Rich- 
mond on  the  3d,  and,  proceeding  to  Monroe,  and  embarking 
on  transports,  had  reached  Columbus,  on  the  Ouachita  River, 
when  tlie  order  for  my  withdrawal  from  the  swamp  was  coun- 
termanded, and  Randall's  ordered  to  rejoin  me  at  Richmond, 
and  I  was  instructed  to  proceed  to  Bedford,  and  to  break  up 
the  plank-road  from  there  to  Young's  Point,  and  to  strike  at 
the  enemy  wherever  I  could  do  so  effectually.  I  was  awaiting 
the  arrival  of  Randall's  and  Tappan's  Brigades  before  marching 


124  WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 

towards  Bedford,  when,  about  eight  o'clock  on  the  morning  of  the 
15th,  I  was  attacked,  at  Richmond,  by  a  division  of  the  enemy's 
forces,  coming  from  Milliken's  Bend,  numbering  between  seven 
and  eight  thousand,  three  light  batteries,  and  eight  hundred 
cavalry,  under  the  command,  as  I  afterward  understood,  of 
General  Devin  or  Davis.  My  whole  force,  consisting  of 
McCulloch's  and  Haws'  Brigades,  terribly  reduced  by  sick- 
ness, did  not  exceed  fifteen  hundred  effective  men,  with  a  light 
battery  of  four  guns,  and  twenty  cavalry.  With  such  a  force 
I  could  not  hope  to  more  than  hold  the  enemy  in  check  until 
my  sick  and  wounded  could  be  removed.  With  this  view,  I 
continued  to  engage  the  enemy,  until  between  twelve  and  one 
o'clock,  P.  M.,  when,  having  effected  my  purpose,  I  retired 
from  Richmond  towards  the  Tensas,  which  I  crossed  about 
sundown.  The  enemy  did  not  attempt  to  follow  me  in  force, 
and  except  some  skirmishing  between  his  advance  and  my 
rear-guard,  my  march  was  unmolested. 

So  large  a  number  of  sick  men  has,  perhaps,  never  be- 
longed to  so  small  a  force ;  and  no  command  was  ever  so 
rapidly  reduced  in  strength  in  the  absence  of  an  epidemic. 
Excessive  heat  of  the  weather,  the  deadly  malaria  of  the 
swamps,  the  stagnant  and  unwholesome  water,  are  the  causes 
to  which  are  attributable  these  sad  results.  My  division 
looked  like  a  vast  moving  hospital.  We  had  sick  men  in 
wagons  and  carts,  wounded  men  on  litters,  borne  by  soldiers, 
and  a  crowd  of  enfeebled  and  emaciated  men  for  whom  no  trans- 
portation could  be  had,  who  were  straggling  along  in  front  of 
the  marching  column,  which  accommodated  its  movements  to 
their  feebleness.  I  had  the  satisfaction,  however,  of  bringing 
off  every  sick  and  wounded  man,  and  lost  only  about  fifteen 
killed,  wounded,  and  missing,  in  the  engagement  in  the  morn- 
ing. I  had  no  means  of  knowing  the  loss  of  the  enemy,  but  I 
have  reason  to  believe  that  it  was  considerable.  On  reaching 
the  Tensas  River,  I  was  joined  by  General  Tappan's  Brigade, 
thirteen  hundred  strong,  which  raised  my  whole  effective 
force  to  twenty-eight  or  twenty-nine  hundred  men — a  force 
too  small  with  which  to  resume  the  offensive,  as  the  care  of 


WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  125 

my  large  number  of  sick  and  wounded  men  required  my  first 
attention. 

Major E.  SEUGET,  A.  A.  Q-eril: 

MAJOR, — Since  the  date  of  my  last  report,  the  forces  under 
my  command  have  broken  up  the  plantations  engaged  in  rais- 
ing cotton  under  Federal  leases,  from  Milliken's  Bend  to 
Lake  Providence,  capturing  some  2,000  negroes,  which  have 
been  restored  to  their  masters,  with  the  exception  of  those 
captured  in  arms,  and  a  few,  the  property  of  disloyal  citizens 
of  Louisiana.  I  consider  it  an  unfortunate  circumstance 
that  any  armed  negroes  were  captured ;  but,  in  the  cav- 
alry expedition  which  broke  up  the  plantations  below 
Lake  Providence,  Colonel  Parsons,  commanding  two  cav- 
alry regiments,  from  the  district  of  Arkansas,  acting 
under  my  orders,  encountered  a  force  of  113  negroes,  and 
three  white  officers,  in  a  fortified  position.  The  officers  pro- 
posed to  surrender  upon  the  condition  of  being  treated  as 
prisoners  of  war,  and  the  armed  negroes  unconditionally. 
Colonel  Parsons  accepted  the  terms.  The  position,  a  high 
mound,  the  side  of  which  had  been  scarped  and  otherwise 
strengthened,  was  of  great  strength,  and  would  have  cost 
many  lives  and  much  precious  time,  if  captured  by  assault. 
Under  these  circumstances,  BrigadierrGeneral  Tappan, 
who  came  up  before  the  capitulation  was  consummated, 
approved  the  convention.  This  was  on  the  30th  ult.,  and  I 
had  made  all  my  arrangements  to  push,  the  next  day,  towards 
Providence  and  Ashton,  some  miles  above,  where  I  intended 
to  establish  my  batteries  for  the  annoyance  of  the  enemy's 
transports.  That  night  I  received  General  Taylor's  instruc- 
tions to  march  my  division  to  Berwick  Bay.  I  immediately 
returned  to  Delhi,  and  had  embarked  one  of  the  brigades  on 
the  railroad  train,  when  I  received  instructions  from  Lieut- 
General  Smith  to  remain  in  this  vicinity.  On  the  5th  inst., 
General  Smith  was  here  in  person,  and  directed  me  to  proceed 
to  Ashton,  on  the  Mississippi,  and  endeavor  to  blockade  the 
river  against  the  enemy's  transports  and  supply-boats.  In 


126 

accordance  with  these  instructions,  I  marched  from  here  on 
the  7th  inst.  The  same  morning,  Captain  James,  who  had 
been  sent  with  a  flag  of  truce  to  deliver  a  communication 
from  General  Taylor  to  General  Grant,  returned  and  reported 
the  delivery  of  the  dispatch  to  the  enemy's  pickets,  at 
Young's  Point.  He  brought  intelligence,  derived  from 
sources  that  I  did  not  credit,  that  the  garrison  at  Yicksburg 
had  capitulated  on  the  4th  inst.  Not  considering  this  en- 
tirely certain,  I  continued  my  movement,  but  the  same  day  I 
received  the  intelligence,  unfortunately  too  well  authenticated 
to  admit  of  a  doubt.  At  the  same  time  I  received  instruc- 
tions from  Lieutenant-General  Smith  to  return  to  this  point, 
and,  if  forced  to  abandon  the  Washita  Yalley  by  superior 
numbers,  to  fall  back  on  Red  Kiver,  towards  Natchitoches. 

I  am  now  engaged  in  burning  all  the  cotton  I  can  reach, 
from  Lake  Providence  to  the  lower  end  of  Concordia  Parish, 
and  shall  endeavor  to  leave  no  spoil  for  the  enemy.  I  have 
also  instructed  the  cavalry  to  destroy  all  subsistence  and  for- 
age on  abandoned  plantations,  that,  from  its  proximity  to  the 
river,  may  give  the  enemy  facilities  for  invasion.  When  this 
destruction  is  effected,  I  shall  withdraw  the  greater  portion 
of  my  force  towards  the  Washita  Eiver,  to  some  more 
healthy  locality.  The  ravages  of  disease  have  fearfully  weak- 
ened my  force,  and  I  consider  it  essential  to  its  future 
usefulness  that  it  should  be  removed  from  here  as  early  as 
practicable. 


WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  127 


CHAPTER   XVIII. 

MARCH  FROM  MONROE  TO  ALEXANDRIA. — GENERAL  McCULLOCH  LEAVES 
THE  DIVISION. — AMUSING  ANECDOTE  OF  AN  ORDNANCE  SERGEANT  EN 
ROUTE  FOR  BERWICK  BAY. — OPERATIONS  OF  GENERAL  DICK  TAYLOR. — 

THE  " GREYHOUNDS"  RESTING. — CAPTURE  OF  FORT  BEAUREGARD. — THE 
"GREYHOUNDS"  ON  THE  ENEMY'S  TRAIL. — PREPARING  FOR  BATTLE. — 
ARRIVAL  OF  GENERAL  SCURRY. 

f 

GEEEABLE  to  the  orders  of  Lieutenant-General 
Kirby  Smith,  the  division  took  up  the  line  of 
march  for  Alexandria,  on  the  12th  of  July,  after 
taking  a  parting  adieu  of  the  citizens  of  Monroe,  but  not 
before  we  gave  them  to  understand  that  we  would  soon  again 
pay  them  a  visit.  This  kind  of  a  promise  we  could  safely 
give  to  the  citizens  of  any  town  or  village  in  Louisiana  or 
Arkansas.  It  was  a  noted  fact  that  our  division  always  paid 
the  second  visit  to  the  citizens  of  those  towns,  whether  they 
were  welcome  or  not.  This  seemed  to  be  part  of  our  pro- 
gramme. 

After  crossing  the  Washita  River  at  Trenton  Ferry,  about  a 
mile  and  a  half  north  of  the  town  of  Monroe,  we  arrived  at 
camp,  situated  about  a  mile  west  of  the  town  of  Trenton. 
We  remained  at  this  camp  until  the  morning  of  the  19th, 
when  we  proceeded  on  our  journey  towards  Alexandria,  via 
Campti,  on  Red  River.  Our  route  of  march  was  over  the 
same  section  of  country  that  we  had  previously  traveled. 
After  marching  five  miles,  we  arrived  at  camp  early  in 
the  day. 

July  20th.  Marched  five  miles. 

July  21st.  Marched  eight  miles. 

July  22d.  Marched  ten  miles,  and  camped  near  the  town  of 
Vernon.  At  this  place  General  H.  E.  McCulloch  took  fare- 


128  WALKEB'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 

well  of  his  brigade.  He  had  received  orders  from  General 
Kirby  Smith  to  report  to  General  Magruder,  in  Texas. 
After  his  arrival  in  Texas,  he  was  assigned  to  the  command  of 
the  northeastern  portion  of  the  State,  with  his  headquarters 
at  Bonham,  in  Fannin  County.  He  fulfilled  this  position 
with  honor  to  himself  and  his  adopted  State,  until  the  close 
of  the  war.  His  duties  were  very  laborious  and  tedious  on 
the  frontier,  he  having  to  guard  against  the  murderous 
Comanches,  as  well  as  to  look  after  the  enemy,  who  were 
continually  making  raids  from  Fort  Smith,  Arkansas,  towards 
the  Texas  frontier.  In  addition  to  protecting  the  frontier 
people  from  raids  by  the  Indians  and  Federals,  he  had  to 
protect  them  from  the  pests  of  the  country,  known  by  the 
name  of  Jayhawkers.  After  he  left  the  brigade,  Colonel 
George  Flournoy  was  assigned  to  the  command. 

July  23d.  Passed  through  the  village  of  Vernon,  and 
marched  twelve  miles. 

July  24th.  Marched  fourteen  miles. 

July  25th.  Marched  ten  miles. 

July  26th.  Marched  eleven  miles. 

July  27th.  Marched  thirteen  miles,  and  arrived  at  Campti, 
on  Bed  Biver,  thus  making  the  second  trip  to  this  place  with- 
in the  short  period  of  a  few  months.  We  remained  encamped 
close  by  a  lake  until  the  morning  of  August  3d,  when  we  left 
camp  and  proceeded  five  miles  down  the  river-bank.  Arriv- 
ing opposite  Grand  Ecore,  a  steamboat  was  in  readiness  to 
ferry  us  across  to  that  place,  where  we  camped  on  the 
sand-flats  until  the  following  morning,  when  transports  ar- 
rived from  Shreveport  to  carry  us  to  Alexandria.  On  the 
morning  of  the  4th,  we  went  aboard  and  proceeded  down  the 
river.  On  our  trip  down  the  river  one  of  our  doctors  took  a 
little  too  much  "benzine."  (Notwithstanding  it  was  war- 
times, there  was  a  bar-room  on  every  boat  that  plied  on  Bed 
Biver.  As  a  matter  of  course,  no  privates  need  apply.)  The 
doctor  had  for  his  companion  an  ordnance-sergeant,  belong- 
ing to  the Begiment,  whom  he  frequently  treated. 

While  emptying  their  glasses,  the  M.  D.'s  conversation  was 


WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  129 

about  medicine,  and  he  commenced  spouting  Latin,  which 
led  the  bar-keeper  to  believe  that  they  were  both  doctors. 
After  they  had  had  several  drinks  together,  the  "  doctor's  "  head 
became  dizzy ;  so  he  concluded  to  go  to  his  state-room, 
leaving  the  ordnance-sergeant  the  bar-keeper's  guest.  Sev- 
eral soldiers  were  lookers-on,  putting  one  in  mind  of  the  fable 
of  "  The  fox  and  the  grapes."  One  of  the  soldiers,  more  witty 
than  the  rest,  approached  the  ordnance- sergeant,  addressing 
him  as  "doctor,"  and  asked  his  permission  to  get  some 
whisky.  The  sergeant  being  a  jolly  fellow,  understood  the 
joke,  and  at  once  ordered  the  bar-keeper  to  let  his  men  have 
as  much  whisky  as  they  wanted ;  at  the  same  time  notifying 
the  men  not  to  get  drunk,  as  he  would  be  held  responsible 
for  their  behavior.  The  commander  of  the  regiment,  seeing 
his  men  merrier  than  common,  soon  ascertained  the  facts, 
and  the  bar-keeper  was  immediately  placed  under  arrest ;  and 
he,  to  save  himself  from  being  court-martialed,  went  in  pur- 
suit of  the  would-be  doctor,  and  had  him  arrested.  The 
bar -keeper  was  soon  set  at  liberty.  A  short  time  afterwards 
this  same  ordnance-sergeant  appeared  in  the  rdle  of  a  con- 
script officer,  on  Black  Eiver,  which  he  carried  out  to  perfec- 
tion. Getting  tired  of  camp-life,  he  strayed  away  from  camp, 
for  the  purpose  of  getting  a  good  dinner.  He  came  across  a 
house,  ten  miles  from  camp,  and  seeing  no  soldiers  about,  he 
alighted  and  asked  for  dinner.  As  dinner  was  getting  ready 
for  him,  he  got  into  a  conversation  with  the  host  of  the  house. 
He  soon  discovered  that  he  was  not  in  the  service.  He  in- 
formed the  host  of  the  house  that  he  was  a  conscript  officer. 
On  hearing  this  announcement,  the  host  begged  him  not  to 
conscript  him,  as  he  had  to  provide  for  fifty  soldiers'  wives 
and  widows.  After  dinner,  the  ordnance-sergeant,  alias  the 
conscript  officer,  asked  what  his  bill  for  dinner  was.  The 
host  replied  that  he  would  make  no  charge,  and  gave  him  to 
understand  that  as  long  as  he  was  in  the  neighborhood,  he 
was  welcome  to  make  his  headquarters  at  his  house.  Thank- 
ing him  for  his  kindness,  he  informed  him  that,  as  a  conscript 
officer,  it  would  be  necessary,  before  he  could  exempt  him 
9 


130  WALKEB'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 

from  military  duty,  to  have  the  fifty  soldiers'  wives  and  wid- 
ows at  his  house  the  next  day,  as  he  wanted  to  witness  them 
himself.  The  following  day  he  came  again  to  dinner,  when, 
sure  enough,  he  beheld  fifty  soldiers'  wives  or  widows  pres- 
ent. After  eating  dinner,  he  made  a  patriotic  speech  to  the 
women.  He  told  them,  in  case  they  failed  to  get  a  good  sup- 
port from  the  party  that  he  had  exempted  from  military 
service,  they  must  write  to  his  headquarters,  at  Shreveport. 

Shortly  after  our  arrival  at  Alexandria,  General  Walker 
received  orders  from  General  Taylor  to  hold  his  division  in 
readiness  to  march  for  Berwick  Bay.  This  order  was  after- 
wards countermanded,  owing  to  the  fall  of  Port  Hudson.  We 
remained  encamped  near  Alexandria,  until  the  10th  day  of 
August.  In  the  meantime  we  learned  that  General  Dick 
Taylor  was  in  possession  of  the  La  Fourche  country,  having 
defeated  the  Federal  Generals  Weitzel  and  Dwight.  After 
capturing  Berwick  Bay,  he  moved  his  forces  in  the  direction 
of  New  Orleans,  which  he  was  confident  he  could  capture, 
provided  the  fall  of  Port  Hudson  had  not  taken  place  so  sud- 
denly, as  there  were  but  few  troops  in  the  vicinity  of  New 
Orleans. 

On  the  morning  of  the  10th  we  took  up  our  line  of  march 
for  Camp  Green,  in  the  piny  woods,  situated  about  twenty- 
five  miles  southwest  of  Alexandria ;  marched  ten  miles,  and 
camped  on  Bayou  La  Moore,  opposite  the  residence  of  Gov- 
ernor Moore.  Owing  to  the  poor  quality  of  the  "  blue  beef" 
we  had  been  getting  for  several  weeks  past,  some  of  the  troops 
concluded  to  "  charge  the  commissary,"  and  see  if  there  was 
anything  more  substantial  than  blue  beef.  After  having  been 
assured  by  some  of  their  officers  that  they  would  get  better 
beef  in  a  few  days,  they  quietly  withdrew,  fully  convinced 
that  the  "  Commissary  Department  o'i  the  C.  S.  Army  "  was 
nothing  more  than  a  myth,  and  had  no  reality  but  in  the 
name. 

August  llth.  Marched  fifteen  miles,  and  arrived  at  Camp 
Green.  During  our  march  to  this  camp  we  passed  through 
— I  might  safely  say — the  richest  valley  on  earth,  then  verdant 


WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  131 

with  rustling  canes,  or  yellow  with  broad  acres  of  ripening 
corn — -all  giving  promise  of  an  abundant  harvest.  The  health 
of  the  troops  at  this  camp  was  very  good,  owing,  I  suppose,  to 
the  morning  exercise  we  took  before  breakfast,  in  the  way  of 
marching  five  miles.  Whether  the  medical  department  advised 
this  exercise  for  the  health  of  the  troops,  I  am  unable  to  say. 
This  kind  of  exercise  was  considered  rest  for  "Walker's 
Greyhounds."  In  our  retired  encampment,  where  the  long- 
leafed  pines  bent  their  green  and  palmy  tops  together,  almost 
shutting  out  the  blue  sky,  we  seemed  to  have  found  that 

"  Boundless  contiguity  of  shade, 
Where  rumor  of  oppression  and  deceit, 
Of  unsuccessful  or  sucessf ul  war, 
May  never  reach  us  more." 

We  remained  encamped  at  Camp  Green  until  the  morning 
of  the  31st  of  August.  Nothing  unusual  transpired  in  camp 
at  this  place,  with  the  exception  of  the  16th  Infantry  being 
ordered  on  picket  below  Alexandria. 

On  the  morning  of  the  31st,  when  about  moving  camp,  we 
learned  from  some  parties  just  arrived  from  Alexandria,  that 
the  enemy  was  in  possession  of  the  town  of  Monroe,  on  the 
Washita  Eiver,  and  that  7,000  more  of  the  enemy  had  crossed 
Bayou  Macon,  from  the  direction  of  Lake  Providence,  and 
were  advancing  in  the  direction  of  Bayou  Bartholomew, 
while  another  force  of  them  was  within  a  few  miles  of  Little 
Bock,  Arkansas.  After  marching  five  miles,  we  camped  near 
a  running  stream  of  water,  and  remained  there  until  the  morn- 
ing of  Sept.  2d.  Shortly  after  our  arrival  in  camp,  Randall's 
Brigade  took  up  the  line  of  march  for  Harrisonburg,  on  the 
Washita  River.  On  the  morning  of  the  2d,  we  took  up  our 
line  of  march  again,  for  the  purpose  of  finding  a  better  camp- 
ground. Marched  eighteen  miles,  through  the  piny  woods, 
in  a  zigzag  form,  before  we  struck  camp. 

Sept.  3d.  Marched  twenty  miles,  and  camped  where 
wood  and  water  was  in  abundance.  This  camp  was  known 
by  the  name  of  Camp  Texas ;  the  country  here  was  rolling 
land,  covered  with  open  woods.  We  remained  at  this  camp 


132  WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 

until  the  morning  of  the  5th,  when  we  took  up  the  line  of 
march  for  Alexandria,  owing  to  dispatches  received  from 
Colonel  Eandall,  informing  General  Walker  that  the  enemy 
had  captured  Fort  Beauregard,  and  had  burned  the  town  of 
Harrisonburg  to  ashes.  After  marching  six  miles  on  the 
Alexandria  road,  we  filed  off  to  the  left,  in  the  direction  of 
Bayou  Eapides,  and  finally  struck  camp,  after  marching  twelve 
miles.  We  remained  at  this  camp  until  the  morning  of  the  7th, 
when  we  left  camp  again ;  marched  six  miles  and  camped 
within  two  miles  of  Alexandria,  where  we  remained  until  the 
26th  inst.  Shortly  after  our  arrival  in  camp,  we  learned  that 
the  enemy  had  re-crossed  the  Washita  Eiver,  and  was  on  their 
way  to  the  Mississippi  Eiver.  In  a  few  days  afterwards, 
Eandall's  Brigade  rejoined  the  balance  of  the  division. 

While  encamped  here,  application  was  made  by  company 
commanders  to  division  headquarters  to  grant  them  the  priv- 
ilege of  furloughing  two  men  from  a  company.  Their  appli- 
cation was  referred  to  district  headquarters,  and  refused. 
There  was  much  excitement  and  dissatisfaction  in  camp 
After  long  months  of  severe  service,  enduring  untold  hardships 
and  trials,  fighting  several  battles  with  a  courage  and  bravery 
which  had  made  their  name  distinguished  everywhere,  the 
only  boon  asked,  the  only  favor  which  could  have  been  con- 
ferred on  them  as  a  recompense  for  their  deeds,  was  refused. 
Now  they  could  look  forward  only  to  a  life  in  the  army  until 
the  termination  of  the  struggle.  The  disappointment  was 
most  bitterly  felt,  and  it  is  not  surprising  that  it  found 
expression  in  still  more  bitter  words. 

On  the  morning  of  the  26th  we  received  marching  orders 
to  proceed  to  the  town  of  Washington,  Parish  of  St.  Landry. 
Marched  fourteen  miles,  and  camped  on  Bayou  Boeuf. 

Sept.  27th.  Marched  fourteen  miles,  passed  through  the 
village  of  Cherryville,  and  camped  two  miles  beyond  the 
village  on  Bayou  Boeuf. 

Sept.  28th.  Marched  fourteen  miles,  and  camped  within 
four  miles  of  Evergreen. 

Sept.    29th.     Marched  fifteen   miles,   passed  through   the 


WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  133 

villages  of  Evergreen  and  Big-Cane,  and  camped  within 
four  miles  of  the  town  of  Washington.  From  the  time  we 
left  Alexandria  until  we  arrived  at  this  place,  it  rained  inces- 
santly, making  the  roads  impassable  to  travel.  The  day  after 
our  arrival  in  camp,  about  500  Yankee  prisoners  passed 
through  our  camp,  escorted  by  some  of  Green's  Cavalry,  en 
route  for  Alexandria.  They  were  captured  at  the  battle  of 
the  Fordoche.  We  remained  encamped  at  this  place  until 
the  3d  of  October,  when  we  took  up  the  line  of  march  for 
Simmsport,  on  the  Atchafalaya  Bayou.  Marched  seven  miles, 
and  camped  near  Evergreen. 

Oct.  4th.  Marched  twelve  miles,  and  camped  at  an  old 
plantation  on  the  Simmsport  road. 

Oct.  5th.  Marched  eighteen  miles ;  passed  through  the  vil- 
lage of  Moreauville.  At  this  place  we  met  Mouton's  Division 
of  Louisiana  troops,  who  were  nearly  ah1  dressed  in  Federal 
uniforms  that  they  had  captured  at  Brashear  City.  They  were 
a  fine  body  of  troops,  and  did  good  service  in  the  Attakapas 
country.  We  arrived  at  camp,  within  four  miles  of  Simmsport. 

Oct.  6th.  Early  this  morning  we  marched  back  again, 
over  the  road  we  came,  for  Washington.  Marched  eighteen 
miles,  and  camped  at  the  same  camp  we  occupied  on  the 
night  of  the  4th. 

Oct.  7th.  Marched  fifteen  miles,  and  camped  two  miles 
from  Evergreen. 

Oct.  8th.  Marched  eight  miles,  passed  through  Big- 
Cane,  and  camped  at  our  old  camping-ground.  Immediately 
after  our  arrival  in  camp,  the  16th  Dismounted  Cavalry, 
under  command  of  Colonel  Gregg,  was  sent  on  picket,  to 
Morgan's  Ferry,  on  the  Atchafalaya  Bayou.  They  returned 
the  following  evening  to  camp.  They  reported  that  the 
enemy's  gun-boats  in  the  Atchafalaya  had  shelled  them,  but 
without  doing  any  harm  to  them.  On  the  morning  of  the 
10th,  apparently  to- keep  the  "Greyhounds"  in  marching 
trim,  we  left  camp  at  daylight,  and  marched  seventeen  miles  : 
passed  through  Evergreen  again,  and  camped  on  Bayou 
Houghpower,,  where  we  remained  until  the  morning  of  the 


134  WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 

13th,  when  we  were  on  the  march  again.  Marched  eleven 
miles,  and  camped  on  Bayou  Boeuf. 

Oct.  14th.  Marched  seventeen  miles,  towards  "Washing- 
ton, on  the  Bayou  Boeuf  road. 

Oct.  15th.     Marched  ten  miles. 

Oct.  16th.     Marched  ten  miles. 

Oct.  17th.  Marched  three  miles,  and  encamped  along- 
side of  Mouton's  Division,  and  a  portion  of  Green's  Cavalry, 
near  a  little  village  named  Moundville.  Shortly  after  our 
arrival  in  camp,  the  13th  Dismounted  Cavalry,  commanded 
by  Colonel  Burnett,  was  ordered  on  picket,  below  the  town  of 
Opelousas.  While  encamped  near  Moundville  we  learned 
that  the  enemy,  numbering  about  27,000,  under  command  of 
General  Franklin,  was  enc.amped  within  seven  miles  of 
Opelousas.  General  Tom  Green's  Cavalry  were  daily  skir- 
mishing with  them. 

On  the  evening  of  the  18th,  General  Dick  Taylor  and  staff 
arrived  in  camp  from  Alexandria,  to  take  command  in  person 
of  the  entire  army  that  was  concentrated  at  this  place.  He 
is  a  son  of  old  "  Hough  and  Ready."  He  has  a  good  record 
of  past  services  under  Stonewall  Jackson,  in  Yirginia.  In  his 
masterly  retreat  before  General  Banks,  when  that  Federal 
commander  made  his  rapid  march  from  Brashear  City  up  the 
Teche,  ascending  to  Alexandria,  and  thence  diverging  to  Port 
Hudson,  time  after  time  his  troops  contested  the  enemy's 
progress  with  barely  a  force  of  5,000  men  against  50,000  of 
the  enemy.  He  abandoned  Franklin,  on  the  Teche,  after  a 
hard-fought  battle,  evacuating  New  Iberia  after  destroying 
the  enemy's  flotilla  and  defense  ;  falling  back  from  Alexandria 
only  when  Admiral  Porter's  guns  and  mortars  had  rendered 
it  untenable.  But  the  numerical  damage  which  his  troops 
sustained  was  slight,  and  their  war  spirit  seemed  to  wax 
rather  than  wane  before  the  enemy's  advance.  No  sooner 
did  General  Banks  wheel  his  army  Mississippi- ward  than  his 
war-spirit  blazed  behind  him. 

Owing  to  his  arrival  in  camp,  the  troops  anticipated  being 
brought  into  action  every  day.  Preparations  were  made  by 


WALKEE'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  135 

him  to  give  the  enemy  a  warm  reception  if  they  should 
advance.  Many  were  the  rumors  afloat  in  camp  about  the 
advance  of  the  enemy :  occasionally  we  would  hear  that 
they  were  within  a  few  miles  of  our  camp ;  then,  again,  we 
would  hear  of  their  retreat. 

On  the  morning  of  the  21st,  the  16th  Infantry,  commanded 
by  Colonel  Flournoy,  was  sent  to  the  assistence  of  General 
Green's  forces,  and  also  to  relieve  the  13th  Infantry,  which 
was  on  picket  below  Opelousas. 

Oct.  22d.  Early  this  morning  the  enemy  advanced  on 
Opelousas,  driving  the  16th  Infantry  and  Green's  Cavalry 
before  them.  The  16th  Infantry  arrived  at  camp  in  the 
evening.  They  reported  that  the  enemy  took  possession  of 
Opelousas  at  about  10  o'clock,  A.M.,  and  was  advancing  on 
"Washington. 

Oct.  23d.  To-day  the  enemy  took  possession  of  "Wash- 
ington. Green's  Cavalry  fell  back  towards  Moundville.  The 
llth  Infantry,  commanded  by  Colonel  Koberts,  and  the  18th 
Infantry,  commanded  by  Colonel  King,  were  ordered  to 
Moundville,  to  reinforce  the  cavalry.  General  Taylor  formed 
his  line  of  battle,  in  a  position  to  sweep  the  road  that  they 
would  be  most  likely  to  advance  on ;  parks  of  artillery  were 
planted,  ready  to  belch  forth  at  a  moment's  notice  ;  the  in- 
fantry was  sheltered  by  a  ditch  in  their  front.  Every  minute 
seemed  like  an  hour  to  us,  till  the  ball  should  be  opened. 
The  enemy  advanced  to  Moundville,  but,  seeing  our  infan- 
try pickets,  fell  back  to  Washington,  followed  by  our  two 
infantry  regiments,  who  were  continually  skirmishing  with 
them.  They  were  ably  assisted  by  all  of  Green's  Calvary, 
except  his  old  Arizona  (or  Sibley's)  Brigade,  which  was  left  in 
position  on  the  infantry's  right  flank — it  was  commanded  by 
Colonel  Bagby, — the  brigade  of  Partisan  Hangers  under 
Colonel  Meyers,  and  the  2d  Louisiana  Cavalry,  commanded 
by  Col.  Vincent.  All  the  cavalry  was  under  the  command  of 
General  Tom  Green.  There  were  several  batteries  of  light 
artillery,  including  the  Valverde,  Semm's,  Edgar's,  Daniels', 
Mesh's,  and  Haldemnu's.  The  number  of  our  forces  con- 


136  WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 

centrated  here  was  about   11,000,  not  half  the  number  of  the 
enemy. 

Notwithstanding  the  smallness  of  our  forces,  compared  with 
the  enemy,  General  Taylor  wras  determined  to  give  battle  if 
the  enemy  advanced. 

The  two  infantry  regiments,  reinforced  by  Colonel  Harri- 
son's (formerly  Speight's)  Regiment,  the  15th  Infantry,  belong- 
ing to  Mouton's  Division,  formed  themselves  into  a  brigade 
commanded  by  Colonel  O.  M.  Roberts,  and  advanced  on  the 
town  of  Washington,  accompanied  by  Green's  Cavalry.  On 
their  arrival  at  Washington,  the  enemy  was  rapidly  retreat- 
ing across  the  prairie  to  Opelousas  ;  in  the  mean  time  General 
Taylor  established  his  headquarters  at  Moundville. 

Leaving  Colonel  Roberts'  Brigade  at  Washington  for  the 
present,  we  will  return  to  the  maneuvering  of  the  balance  of 
the  troops.  Hearing  of  the  retreat  of  the  enemy,  the  divis- 
ion fell  back  about  two  miles  to  a  better  camp-ground. 
Shortly  after  our  arrival  at  the  new  camp-ground,  General 
Scurry  arrived  in  camp  from  Texas.  He  was  assigned  to  the 
command  of  the  3d  Brigade,  thus  relieving  Colonel  Flournoy 
from  command  of  the  brigade.  General  Scurry  was  gener- 
ally known  by  all  the  troops  in  the  division,  owing  to  the 
prominent  position  he  held  in  the  Arizona  expedition,  and 
the  bravery  he  displayed  in  the  battles  of  Yalverde  and 
Glorietta,  which  he  fought  and  won ;  and  his  masterly  retreat 
from  New  Mexico,  gave  evidence  of  no  little  skill.  We  be- 
lieve, to  him  is  mainly  due  the  credit  of  saving,  after  its  cap- 
ture, the  celebrated  Valverde  battery,  which  has  made  itself 
heard  and  felt  by  the  Yankee  invaders  on  more  than  one  occa- 
sion. At  the  retaking  of  Galveston  by  General  Magruder,  he 
commanded  the  land  forces,  and  distinguished  himself  by  his 
deliberate  coolness  and  skill  throughout  the  battle. 

Through  respect  towards  him,  the  bands  of  the '  brigade 
serenaded  him.  After  the ,  music  had  ceased  playing,  several 
of  the  officers,  and  the  majority  of  the  men,  called  upon  him 
to  make  a  speech.  He  informed  them  that  he  despised 
speech-making  nowadays,  but  in  a  few  days  expected  to  meet 


WALKEB'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  137 

the  enemy,  and  then  he  would  address  a  few  remarks  to  them, 
and  he  expected  the  troops  of  the  3d  Brigade  to  respond  to 
them  as  brave  soldiers  should  do. 

General  Scurry's  staff  consisted  of  the  following-named 
officers,  viz. : 

Major  T.  J.  SCURRY,  Quartermaster. 

11     H.  H.  HAYNIE,  Commissary. 
Captain  S.  F.  A.  BRYAN,  Ordnance  Officer. 

"      J.  F.  WOOFORD,  Commissary  of  Subsistence. 

"      JAMES  CLARKE,  Aid-de-  Camp. 

"      A.  N.  MILLS,  Assist.  Adjt. -General. 

While  remaining  at  this  camp,  a  regiment  from  each 
brigade  went  on  picket  every  night.  We  remained  at  this 
camp  until  the  26th  inst.,  when  we  fell  back  some  twelve 
miles  and  camped  near  the  village  of  Holnaesville.  At  this 
camp  we  witnessed  the  shooting  of  a  deserter,  who  was  mak- 
ing his  way  towards  the  enemy  ;  he  was  captured  by  our 
cavalry  scouts.  We  remained  encamped  near  Holnaesville 
until  the  8th  of  November.  On  the  morning  of  the  3d,  news 
was  received  from  Colonel  O.  M.  Roberts  that  his  regiment 
and  King's  Eegiment,  in  conjunction  with  Harrison's  Regiment 
of  Infantry  and  Green's  Cavalry,  had  met  the  enemy  at  Bayou 
Bourbeaux,  and  completely  routed  them. 

On  the  6th  they  arrived  in  camp,  escorting  the  prisoners 
they  had  captured  at  the  battle  of  Bayou  Bourbeaux. 


138  WALKEB'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 


CHAPTEE   XIX. 


THE  BATTLE  OF  BAYOU  BOURBEAUX. — OFFICIAL  REPORT  OF  THE  BATTLE. 
— GENERAL  TAYLOR'S  CONGRATULATORY  ADDRESS  TO  THE  TROOPS  OF 
WALKER'S  DIVISION. — THE  FEDERAL  REPORT  OF  THE  BATTLE. 

"  A  nation's  flag,  a  nation's  flag, 

If  wickedly  unrolled, 
May  foes  in  adverse  battles  drag 

Its  every  fold  from  fold. 
But  in  the  cause  of  liberty, 
Guard  it  till  death  .or  victory  ; 

Look  you,  you  guard  it  well  ! 
No  saint  or  king  has  tomb  so  proud 
As  he  whose  flag  becomes  his  shroud. " 


'HE  night  of  the  23d  of  October,  1863,  found  the 
brigade  of  infantry  commanded  by  Colonel  O.  M. 
Eoberts  (consisting  of  the,llth,  15th,  and  18th  Regi- 
ments of  Texas  Infantry)  bivouacked  near  the  town  of  Wash- 
ington, St.  Landry  Parish,  Louisiana.  It  was  a  most  uncom- 
fortable night — cold,  dark,  and  rainy.  The  troops,  greatly 
wearied  by  the  day's  march,  lay  down  to  sleep,  supperless. 
The  following  day  they  expected  to  meet  the  enemy  in  battle. 
But  the  ever-vigilant  "  Texas  Cavalier,"  General  Tom  Green, 
notified  them  the  following  day  "  to  abide  their  time  "  until 
he  had  made  all  the  necessary  arrangements  for  a  decisive 
battle.  They  remained  encamped  near  Washington,  awaiting 
orders.  General  Green's  cavalry  were  employed  in  skirmish- 
ing with  the  enemy,  who  were  encamped  some  eight  miles 
southeast  of  the  town  of  Opelousas. 

On  the  evening  of  the  2d  November,  Colonel  Koberts  re- 
ceived orders  from  General  Green  to  report  with  his  brigade 
at  his  headquarters,  near  Opelousas,  on  the  following  morning. 


139 

After  a  tiresome  and  laborious  tramp,  they  marched  through 
the  town  of  Opelousas  to  the  tune  of  "  Dixie,"  as  daylight  was 
dawning,  on  the  morning  of  the  3d.  They  halted  near  Gen- 
eral Green's  headquarters  to  cook  breakfast.  After  breakfast, 
a  general  advance  of  the  cavalry  and  infantry  forces  was  or- 
dered by  General  Green.  On  arriving  within  three  miles  of 
the  enemy's  camp  they  halted  to  rest.  While  the  troops  were 
resting,  General  Green  held  a  consultation  with  his  field- 
officers,  after  informing  them  that  General  Dick  Taylor  had 
ordered  him  to  attack  the  enemy's  rearguard,  then  encamped 
on  the  west  bank  of  Bayou  Bourbeaux  (Boggy  Creek),  eight 
miles  south  of  Opelousas.  Close  by  the  enemy's  camp  was  a 
skirt  of  timber,  about  six  hundred  yards  wide,  running 
through  the  prairie.  A  large  body  of  the  enemy,  consisting 
of  part  of  the  13th  Army  Corps,  under  command  of  General 
Burbridge,  were  encamped  :  their  forces  consisted  of  about 
five  or  six  thousand  veteran  troops  of  the  Northwest.  They 
were  the  rearguard  of  Franklin's  army,  who  were  encamped 
four  miles  further  south,  on  Carrion-Crow  Bayou.  The  road 
from  Opelousas  to  the  enemy's  camp  led  southward,  along  the 
western  side  of  the  skirt  of  timber,  for  a  mile  or  more,  and 
then  turned  abruptly  eastward  through  the  skirt  of  timber 
and  across  the  bayou,  where  there  were  several  bridges,  and 
then  on  southward,  through  the  prairie,  to  Carrion-Crow  Bayou. 
The  Federal  rearguard  camps  were  situated  about  two  or 
three  hundred  yards  south  from  the  point  where  the  road 
turned  eastward  to  cross  the  bayou. 

The  plan  of  the  battle  adopted  by  General  Green  and  his 
officers  was  as  follows :  Colonel  O.  M.  Eoberts,  with  his  in- 
fantry brigade,  was  to  move  southward  upon  the  enemy, 
under  shelter  of  the  timber,  between  the  bayou  and  the  road, 
driving  back  the  pickets  and  outposts.  The  brigade  of  Par- 
tisan Rangers,  under  command  of  Colonel  Majors,  were  to 
exhibit  themselves  in  line  of  battle  on  the  prairie  eastward,  in 
sight  of  the  enemy,  so  as  to  attract  their  attention  in  that 
direction.  Colonel  Bagby's  brigade  of  cavalry,  accompanied 
by  the  Yalverde  Battery  (I  believe)  and  General  Green,  was 


140  WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 

to  advance  from  the  northwest,  towards  the  enemy's  camp ; 
dismount,  give  the  signal,  by  firing  cannon,  for  the  fight  to 
commence,  and,  as  soon  as  practicable,  form  a  line  on  the 
right  of  the  infantry.  Colonel  Majors'  rangers  were  to 
advance  upon  the  enemy,  so  as  to  fall  in  on  the  right  of 
Bagby's  brigade,  and  to  act  in  conjunction  with  or  in  support 
of  the  dismounted  cavalry  and  infantry,  in  what  was  intended 
to  be  an  almost  simultaneous  concentration  and  dash  of  all 
of  Green's  forces  upon  the  enemy's  camp.  The  plan  was 
then  and  there  formed  impromptu  by  General  Green,  who, 
when  asked  by  one  of  his  field-officers,  "  How  many  of  the 
enemy  do  we  attack  to-day?"  replied,  "I  do  not  know  the 
number,  but  I  do  know  that  there  are  not  too  many  for  us  to 
attack."  ("We  had  no  reserve  force.)  The  officers  having  been' 
informed  of  their  respective  duties,  and  having  made  the 
arrangements  and  preparations  for  a  battle  which  was  then 
certain  to  come  off,  each  brigade  moved  off  to  assume  the 
position  and  perform  the  part  assigned  to  it.  The  infantry 
brigade  was  formed  in  line  of  battle,  in  the  following  manner : 
The  15th  T.  V.  Infantry,  commanded  by  Colonel  James  H. 
Harrison,  took  their  position  on  the  right  of  the  brigade ; 
the  18th  T.  V.  Infantry,  commanded  by  Colonel  King,  was 
assigned  the  center,  and  the  llth  T.  Y.  Infantry,  commanded 
by  Lieutenant-Colonel  James  H.  Jones,  took  their  position 
on  the  le'ft  of  the  brigade.  Yery  soon  our  infantry  skirmish- 
ers came  upon  our  cavalry  pickets,  who  were  amusing  them- 
selves, as  it  were,  in  shooting  down  a  wide  lane,  one  and  a 
half  miles  long,  at  the  enemy's  pickets,  who  were  firing  back 
in  return.  The  infantry  skirmishers  continued  to  advance, 
followed  by  the  brigade.  Majors'  cavalry  had  already  gone  on 
towards  their  position,  and  here  Bagby's  cavalry  turned  off 
obliquely  to  the  right.  General  Green  and  staff  followed 
after.  General  Green,  beholding  his  cavalry  pickets  wasting 
their  ammunition  without'  any  effect,  at  once  ordered  Colonel 
Roberts  to  clear  the  lane.  That  heroic  and  indefatiga- 
ble officer,  who  was  on  his  way  home  to  recover  his 
broken  health,  hearing  that  his  regiment  was  ordered  to  the 


WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  141 

front,  hurriedly  returned  to  lead  his  gallant  men  to  victory. 
Though  very  pale  and  feeble,  his  dark  eye  was  lit  up  by  mar- 
tial music;  his  frail  form  appeared -full  of  vigor  and  vitality. 
Imagine  the  old  veteran  colonel  of  Walker's  Division  at  the 
head  of  his  column,  with  his  sword  drawn,  gallantly  leading 
his  men  to  victory !  Soon  the  lane  was  cleared  of  the  enemy, 
driving  them  before  him.  After  getting  through  the  lane,  he 
formed  his  men  in  line  of  battle,  in  the  edge  of  tbe  timber, 
and  moved  steadily  forward,  driving  the  enemy's  outposts  into 
their  camp.  Seeing  some  trees  cut  down  near  the  camp,  he 
anticipated  that  probably  the  enemy  might  have  some 
masked  batteries  behind  the  trees ;  he  halted  his  brigade  a 
few  moments,  until  he  could  learn  the  facts.  Hearing  from 
his  sharpshooters,  who  were  some  distance  in  advance  of  his 
brigade,  that  no  artillery  was  placed  behind  the  trees,  he 
ordered  his  brigade  to  advance  in  the  direction  of  the  enemy's 
camp.  Nearing  the  enemy's  camp,  he  beheld  them  in  line  of 
battle,  ready  to  give  the  Texans  a  warm  reception  on  their 
arrival.  Nearer  his  brigade  advances,  showing  a  bold  and 
solid  front  to  the  enemy.  His  sharpshooters  fire,  and  stop 
to  reload  again ;  then  moving  forward,  nearing  their  camp, 
they  meet  with  a  large  body  of  the  enemy.  Upon  which 
they  fall  back  gradually,  and  rejoin  their  command.  Soon 
the  war-worn  old  veteran  gave  the  command,  in  his 
sonorous  voice,  "Charge  them,  boys!"  which  was  quickly 
done,  notwithstanding  the  enemy  was  formed  in  a  ravine,  an- 
ticipating a  charge  from  the  Texans.  They  placed  their  ar- 
tillery so  as  to  bear  on  our  troops,  from  the  edge  of  their 
camp.  Fortunately,  their  shots  passed  over  our  men,  doing 
no  harm.  In  the  meantime  a  large  body  of  the  enemy's  cav- 
alry had  been  forming  to  charge  our  infantry  in  their  rear,  by 
forcing  the  passage  of  the  bridges,  in  opposition  to  a  force 
under  Major  Carroway,  of  the  llth  T.  Y.  Infantry,  who  had 
been  sent  there  by  Colonel  Roberts,  aided  by  a  cavalry  com- 
pany, under  Captain  Jack  "Waterhouse.  Now  the  battle  raged 
in  all  its  fury.  All  of  the  field-officers,  except  Colonel  Rob- 
erts, dismounted  and  led  their  commands  with  undaunted 


142  WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 

firmness.  The  voices  of  the  brave  officers,  encouraging 
their  men,  could  be  heard,  loud  and  distinct,  amidst  the  crash 
and  roar  of  a  continued  fire  of  small  arms  and  artillery.  Men 
fell  thick  and  fast  on  both  sides.  Here  it  was  that  the  gal- 
lant Captain  StiUwell,  of  the  llth  T.  V.  Infantry,  fell  mortally 
wounded,  and  Captain  Richard  Coke,  the  "nonpareil"  officer 
of  the  15th  T.  V.  Infantry,  while  in  the  act  of  leading  his 
men,  was  seriously  wounded.  The  dashing  Captain  Christian, 
Adjutant  of  the  llth  T.  V.  Infantry,  was  also  seriously  wounded; 
and  the  old  veteran  commander,  Colonel  Eoberts,  had  his  horse 
shot  while  cheering  on  his  troops.  The  same  misfortune 
happened  to  two  of  his  acting  aid-de-camps.  Captain  J.  E. 
Hart,  of  General  Green's  Staff,  and  Major  Carroway,  who  had 
just  arrived  from  the  bridge  they  were  ordered  to  defend,  in- 
formed Colonel  Eoberts,  personally,  that  unless  they  got  rein- 
forcements immediately  it  would  be  doubtful  whether  they 
would  be  able  to  hold  the  bridge  longer  than  fifteen  minutes, 
as  the  enemy's  cavalry  was  preparing  to  carry  it  by  storm. 
Colonel  Roberts  informed  them  that,  under  the  circumstances, 
he  could  not  withdraw  any  of  his  forces  then  engaged  with 
the  enemy,  to  aid  or  assist  them;  he  would  communicate 
the  facts  to  General  Green  as  soon  as  possible ;  in.  the  mean- 
time giving  them  to  understand  that  the  bridge  must  be  held 
by  them  at  all  hazards,  and  that  he  was  then  fighting  the 
enemy  under  great  disadvantage.  Colonel  Eoberts  expected 
that  all  of  General  Green's  troops  would  attack  the  enemy 
about  the  same  time.  From  some  cause  the  cavalry  did  not 
arrive  until  about  fifteen  minutes  after  the  infantry  was 
engaged.  Those  two  heroic  officers  returned  to  their  com- 
mand, determined  to  hold  the  bridge  at  any  sacrifice.  It  was 
certain  that  unless  Colonel  Eoberts  should  be  reinforced,  his 
brigade  would  be  lost ;  but,  as  the  column  of  cavalry  dashed 
madly  forward,  led  by  the  heroic  Majors  and  Bagby,  and 
came  in  range  of  the  enemy,  their  guns  vomited  among  them 
a  storm  of  bullets.  The  infantry  firing  ceases  a  few  minutes. 
The  command  is  given :  "  Fix  bayonets !  forward !  double- 
quick  !  "  when  the  whole  line,  in  perfect  order,  as  if  on  parade, 


WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  143 

responded  by  a  simultaneous  shout,  and  rushed  upon  the  enemy, 
driving  them  "pell-mell"  over  their  camp-ground.  With  their 
lines  broken,  and  they  fleeing  in  disorder,  the  cavalry  sweeps 
down  upon  their  flanks,  giving  time  for  the  infantry  to  breathe 
a  few  moments.  But  the  ever-keen  eye  of  the  infantry  brig- 
ade beheld  part  of  the  enemy's  cavalry  still  in  his  rear,  and 
still  held  in  check  by  Major  Carroway  and  Captain  Hart.  He 
gave  the  command,  "  Hight-about  face ;  forward  march !"  Few 
of  the  officers  or  men  anticipating  any  further  danger  from 
the  enemy,  they  kept  talking  at  the  top  of  their  voices,  as  they 
advanced  over  the  ground  they  had  previously  charged  over. 
Soon  they  came  upon  the  enemy's  cavalry,  who  were  killed  or 
taken  prisoners  in  a  few  minutes'  time.  So  sanguine  were 
the  enemy  of  success  that  they  formed  a  line  covering  the 
entire  length  of  our  rear,  and  were  busily  engaged  in  running 
off  stragglers  and  wounded  men  that  had  fallen  out  of  our 
lines,  and  were  quietly  awaiting  our  defeat,  to  capture  our 
forces  in  their  retreat.  Just  at  that  point  of  time  General 
Green  appeared  on  the  field,  much  surprised  in  seeing  the 
position  of  our  infantry,  until  it  was  explained  to  him  why 
the  infantry  brigade  was  turned  in  that  direction.  Our  artil- 
lery did  good  service  across  the  bayou,  in  firing  upon  the 
scattered  troops  of  the  enemy,  as  they  were  retreating  south- 
ward across  the  prairie.  All  this  time,  however,  the  arms  of 
Majors'  and  Bagby's  brigades  were  resounding  in  the  dis- 
tance, as  they  pursued  the  retreating  foe.  Some  of  the  ene- 
my's artillery  that  escaped  returned  the  fire,  and  an  artillery 
duel  ensued,  which  effected  but  little  on  either  side,  and 
ceased  in  an  hour,  when  our  forces  were  ordered  back  to 
camp,  near  Opelousas.  The  enemy  came  out  in  force,  and 
their  cavalry  foUowed  our  forces  several  miles  towards  our 
camp. 

This  battle,  from  the  first  to  the  last  firing,  lasted  fully 
three  hours.  It  is  impossible,  in  a  short  sketch  of  this  kind, 
to  do  justice  to  the  gallant  conduct  of  the  officers  and  men. 
It  would  afford  the  writer  great  pleasure  to  do  so.  Our  forces 
lost,  in  the  infantry  brigade,  twenty-one  killed;  wounded, 


144  WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 

eighty-two;  taken  prisoners,  thirty-eight.  Our  cavalry  and 
artillery  lost  in  killed,  three ;  wounded,  twenty.  "We  cap- 
tured about  six  hundred  prisoners,  and  killed  and  wounded 
about  two  hundred.  Most  of  the  prisoners  were  captured  by 
the  cavalry,  and,  doubtless,  many  feats  of  bravery  were  per- 
formed by  them  on  that  occasion,  which  would  deserve  a  com- 
mendable notice  if  they  could  be  detailed. 

OFFICIAL  REPORT  OF  THE  BATTLE. 

The  Major-General  commanding  congratulates  Brig.-Gen- 
eral  Green,  and  the  troops  under  his  command,  upon  the 
brilliant  feat  of  arms  at  the  Bayou  Bourbeaux,  on  the  3d  inst. 
A  force  greatly  inferior  to  the  enemy  drove  him  from  all  his 
positions,  taking  and  destroying  the  camp  of  the  13th  Army 
Corps,  of  the  United  States  army,  and  bringing  off  from  the 
field  over  600  prisoners,  including  many  commissioned  officers, 
seven  regimental  flags,  and  a  considerable  number  of  small 
arms.  The  veterans  of  General  Green's  Division  proved 
themselves,  on  the  occasion,  worthy  of  the  reputation  won  on 
other  fields.  The  little  brigade  of  infantry,  consisting  of 
Koberts'  llth,  Speight's  15th  (commanded  by  Lieut.-Colonel 
Harrison),  and  King's  18th — the  whole  led  by  Colonel  O.  M. 
Roberts,  and  not  carrying  over  950  muskets  into  action — 
charged  and  broke  the  enemy's  right  wing,  under  a  heavy  fire 
of  musketry  and  cross-fire  of  artillery,  and  routed  and  dis- 
persed a  large  cavalry  force,  which  endeavored  to  pierce 
their  lines.  The  number  of  their  killed  and  wounded  attests 
the  spirit  and  gallantry  with  which  this  brigade  performed 
their  share  of  the  work  of  this  memorable  day.  With  equal 
spirit  and  like  success,  Majors'  and  Bagby's  Brigades,  the 
latter  including  Waller's  Battalion,  forced  the  enemy's  left 
and  center,  and  compelled  them  to  abandon  the  field. 

For  the  blow  thus  vigorously  dealt  the  enemy,  the  Major- 
General  commanding  tenders  his  sincere  thanks    to  Brig.- 
General  Green,  to  Colonels  Majors,  Bagby,  and  Eoberts,  and 
to  all  the  officers  and  men  who  participated  in  the  action. 
(Signed,)  Major-General  TAYLOR. 


WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  145 

GENERAL  TAYLOR'S  CONGRATULATORY  ADDRESS  TO  THE 
TROOPS  OF  "  WALKER'S  DIVISION." 

Major-General  WALKER  : 

GENERAL, — The  Major-General  commanding  directs  me  to 
say,  in  addition  to  what  he  has  said  in  his  "  Official  Eeport " 
of  the  battle  of  Bourbeaux,  that  the  conduct  of  the  two  regi- 
ments from  your  division,  and  at  present  under  General 
Green's  command,  has  responded  to  his  highest  hopes  and 
expectations.  They  pressed  the  veterans  of  Yicksburg  with 
a  coolness,  resolution,  and  perseverance  that  was  irresistible. 
Their  loss  is,  in  Colonel  Roberts'  Eegiment,  four  killed,  and 
in  Colonel  King's,  ten,  with  a  proportionate  number  of 
wounded.  The  men  are  in  cheerful  spirits,  and  eagerly  an- 
ticipate dealing  a  second  blow. 

The  Major-General  commanding  presents  his  congratula- 
tions on  the  conduct  of  your  men. 

(Signed,)  E.  TAYLOR,  Major-Gen.  Commdg. 

—  LEVY,  A.  A.  General. 

The  day  after  the  battle,  the  enemy  having  possession  of 
the  battle-field,  our  men  were  buried  in  the  prairie,  near  the 
battle-field.  About  a  week  afterwards,  Lieut.  Airhuit,  of  the 
llth  Eegiment  of  Infantry,  with  a  detail  of  men,  raised  a 
large  mound  of  earth  over  them,  which  still  stands,  covered 
with  Bermuda  grass, — an  honored  monument,  humble  though 
it  be,  to  the  memory  of  the  brave  Texans  who,  on  the  bright 
November  day,  nobly  gave  their  lives  to  their  country. 

The  court-house  in  Opelousas  was  made  a  hospital  for  our 
wounded,  and  there  occurred  a  scene  that  melted  into  tears 
the  most  obdurate.  It  was  the  sympathy  of  the  women. 
The  ladies  of  Opelousas  and  its  vicinity,  young  and  old, 
Catholic  and  Protestant,  came  crowding  in,  and  waited  upon 
our  men  just  as  if  they  had  been  their  husbands  and  brothers. 
Long  will  be  remembered  with  heartfelt  gratitude,  by  the 
Texas  soldiers,  the  appreciative  kindness  and  sympathy  of  the 
Louisiana  ladies.  About  ten  davs  after  the  battle,  the  enemy 
10 


146  WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 

embarked  on  board  of  their  transports  at  Morganzia  Land- 
ing, for  New  Orleans. 

THE  FEDERAL  REPORT  OF  THE  BATTLE  OF  BOURBEAUX. 

Major  WILLIAM  HOFFMAN,  A.  A.  General  of  the  13th  Army 

Corps  : 

MAJOR, — I  enclose  herewith  report  of  Brig.-General  Bur- 
bridge,  in  regard  to  the  battle  of  Bourbeaux,  on  the  3d  inst. 
On  the  morning  of  the  1st  inst.,  by  order  of  Major-General 
Franklin,  the  troops  of  the  3d  Division  were  ordered  to  march 
and  encamp  at  Carrion-Crow  Bayou,  while  General  Bur- 
bridge,  with  the  troops  under  his  command,  was  ordered  to 
march  down  the  Teche,  and  cross  it,  and  move  by  way  of 
Grand  Coteau,  where  the  road  from  Vermilion  to  Opelousas 
crosses  Muddy  Bayou,  about  three  miles  from  Carrion-Crow 
Bayou,  in  the  direction  of  Opelousas,  and  go  into  camp  there, 
on  the  north  side  of  the  bayou.  Colonel  Fonda,  with  about 
500  mounted  infantry,  was  also  ordered  to  encamp  near  him. 
The  troops  all  moved  and  went  into  camp,  as  ordered.  The 
19th  Corps,  on  the  same  day,  moved  back  to  Carrion-Crow 
Bayou,  and  on  the  following  day  to  Vermilionville,  leaving 
the  3d  and  1st  Brigades  of  the  4th  Division  of  the  13th  Corps, 
to  hold  the  positions  before  named.  The  position  of  the 
troops,  on  the  morning  of  the  3d  inst.,  was  then  as  follows : 
Brig.-General  Burbridge,  with  one  brigade  of  the  4th  Division, 
about  1,200  strong,  with  one  6-gun  battery  of  10-pounder 
Parrotts,  and  Colonel  Fonda,  with  about  500  mounted  in- 
fantry and  a  section  of  Nimm's  Battery,  on  the  north  side  of 
Muddy  Bayou ;  and  the  3d  Division,  General  McGinnis 
commanding,  3,000  strong,  with  one  battery,  at  Carrion-Crow 
Bayou,  three  miles  in  the  rear  of  General  Burbridge.  The 
two  bayous  before  named  run  in  an  easterly  direction,  nearly 
parallel  with  each  other,  and  along  the  stream  there  is  a  belt 
of  timber,  about  150  yards  in  width,  while  between  the  two  is 
smooth,  level  prairie.  To  the  right  of  General  Burbridge's  posi- 
tion was  an  extensive  and  dense  tract  of  woods,  while  on  his 


WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  147 

front  and  left,  the  country  was  high,  open  prairie.  About  9 
o'clock  in  the  morning  of  the  3d,  I  received  an  order  from 
General  Burbridge,  saying  that  the  enemy  had  shown  himself 
in  some  force.  I  immediately  ordered  out  the  3d  Division,  and 
just  as  I  had  got  them  into  line,  I  received  another  note  from 
General  Burbridge,  saying  that  the  enemy  had  entirely  dis- 
appeared. Ordering  the  division  to  remain  under  arms,  I 
rode  rapidly  to  the  front,  and  learning  from  General  Burbridge 
and  Colonel  Fonda  that  all  was  quiet,  and  that  such  troops 
of  the  enemy  as  had  shown  themselves  had  all  fallen  back,  I 
started  to  return  to  my  headquarters,  near  the  3d  Division. 
When  I  had  arrived  at  about  midway  between  the  two  camps, 
I  heard  a  rapid  cannonade.  Sending  two  members  of  my 
staff  to  the  rear,  to  bring  up  the  3d  Division,  I  rode  back  to 
the  front,  and,  crossing  the  bayou  and  passing  through  the 
timber  to  the  open  ground,  I  soon  discovered  that  we  were 
assailed  with  terrible  energy,  by  an  overwhelming  force,  in 
front  and  on  both  flanks.  Many  of  the  troops  had  broken, 
and  were  scattered  over  the  field,  and  the  utter  destruction  or 
capture  of  the  whole  force  seemed  imminent. 

The  attack  on  the  right,  through  the  woods,  was  made  by 
infantry,  and  though  our  troops  fought  most  gallantly  on  that 
wing,  they  were  compeUed  to  give  way  before  overwhelming 
numbers.  Here  it  was  that  we  lost  most  of  our  men  in  killed 
and  wounded.  The  23d  Wisconsin,  Colonel  Gubby  com- 
manding ;  96th  Ohio,  Lieutenant-Colonel  Brown  commanding ; 
and  60th  Indiana,  commanded  by  Captain  Gatzler ;  and  17th 
Ohio  Battery,  Captain  Eice  commanding,  fought  with  the 
greatest  desperation,  holding  the  enemy  in  check  for  a  con- 
siderable space  of  time,  but  for  which  our  entire  train,  with 
our  artillery,  would  have  been  captured.  As  it  was,  General 
Burbridge  was  enabled  to  bring  off  every  wagon,  and  all 
government  property,  with  the  exception  of  one  10-pounder 
Parrott  gun,  which  was  captured  just  as  it  was  crossing  the 
bayou,  the  horses  having  been  shot.  The  bringing  off  of  the 
section  of  Nimms'  Battery  commanded  by  Lieutenant  Mar- 
land,  after  the  regiment  sent  to  its  support  had  surrendered, 


148  WALKEK'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 

extorted  the  admiration  of  every  beholder.  "While  the  fight 
was  proceeding,  the  3d  Division  came  up  on  a  double-quick, 
but  by  the  time  they  had  reached  the  middle  of  the  prairie, 
and  one  and  a  half  miles  from  the  scene  of  action,  General 
Burbridge's  command  had  been  driven  entirely  out  of  the 
woods,  while  the  rebel  cavalry,  in  great  force,  charged  through 
the  narrow  belt  of  timber  on  the  left,  and  were  coming  down 
on  his  rear.  By  this  time  the  3d  Division  had  come  within 
range,  formed  in  line,  and  commenced  shelling  them,  which 
immediately  checked  their  further  advance,  while  General 
Burbridge,  who  had  again  got  his  guns  into  position,  opened 
a  cross-fire  upon  them,  when  the  whole  force  of  the  enemy 
retreated  to  the  cover  of  the  woods.  Our  whole  force  was 
deployed  in  line  of  battle,  and  moved  as  rapidly  as  possible 
through  the  woods,  driving  the  enemy  out  of  it,  who  retreated 
rapidly.  I  moved  the  troops  up  on  their  line  of  retreat  about 
one  and  a  half  miles,  while  the  cavalry  pursued  about  three 
miles.  My  men  being  brought  up  at  a  double-quick,  were 
very  much  exhausted,  and  it  was  not  possible  to  pursue 
further.  Our  losses  are  26  killed,  120  wounded,  and  566 
missing.  The  loss  of  the  enemy,  in  killed,  was  about  60  ; 
number  of  wounded  not  known,  as  they  carried  all  but  12  off 
the  ground  ;  but  wounded  officers,  who  were  taken  prisoners, 
represent  the  number  of  wounded  as  being  very  large.  "We 
took  65  prisoners. 

Brigadier-General  McGinnis,  being  very  ill,  was  not  able  to 
be  on  the  field.  The  troops  of  the  division  behaved  admi- 
rably under  the  command  of  Brigadier-General  Cameron,  of 
the  1st,  and  Colonel  Slack,  of  the  2d  Brigade.  The  action 
of  General  Burbridge  was  gallant  and  judicious,  from  the 
time  I  first  saw  him  until  the  close  of  the  engagement.  The 
conduct  of  the  67th  Regiment,  Indiana  Infantry,  was  inex- 
plicable, and  their  surrender  can  only  be  attributed  to  the 
incompetency  or  cowardice  of  the  commanding  officer.  They 
had  not  a  single  man  killed.  Our  mounted  force,  under 
Colonels  Fonda  and  Robinson,  though  very  small,  behaved 
very  handsomely.  I  left  at  Carrion-Crow  Bayou,  to  hold 


WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  149 

that  position,  three  regiments  of  the  3d  Division,  namely,  the 
llth  Indiana,  29th  Wisconsin,  and  24th  Iowa,  with  one  section 
of  artillery.  It  was  fortunate  that  I  did  so,  for  while  the 
fight  was  proceeding  with  General  Burbridge's  command, 
Colonel  Beylor,  of  the  1st  Texas  Mounted  Rifles,  swept 
around  on  our  left,  and  attacked  the  camp  at  Carrion-Crow 
Bayou  ;  but  they  were  driven  off  with  a  loss  of  three  killed ; 
we  lost  none.  I  refer  particularly  to  the  report  of  General 
Burbridge  for  the  names  of  those  deserving  honorable  men- 
tion. On  the  4th  inst.  the  enemy  sent  in  a  flag  of  truce,  pro- 
posing to  give  up  such  of  our  wounded  as  they  had,  not  hav- 
ing the  means  to  take  care  of  them.  I  sent  for  and  received 
forty-seven.  They  refused  to  give  up  our  wounded  officers — 
among  them,  Colonel  Gubby,  of  the  23d  Wisconsin,  a  most 
gallant  and  meritorious  officer.  Though  wounded,  I  am  pleased 
to  learn  that  his  wound  is  not  severe,  and  that  all  our  prison- 
ers are  well  treated.  As  to  the  force  of  the  enemy  engaged, 
opinions  are  conflicting ;  but,  from  the  best  data  I  have,  I 
judge  them  to  have  been  from  six  to  seven  thousand,  the 
whole  under  the  command  of  Brigadier-General  Green. 
(Signed,)  C.  C.  WASHBURNE, 

Major-General  Commanding. 


150  WALKERS  TEXAS  DIVISION. 


CHAPTER  XX. 

ON   THE  MARCH. — EXPEDITION  ACROSS  THE  ATCHAFALAYA  BAYO-U. 

* 

BOUT  noontime,  on  the  8th  November,  we  took 
up  our  line  of  march  for  Simmsport.  Marched  ten 
miles,  and  camped  near  the  town  of  Evergreen. 

Nov.  9th.  Passed  through  Evergreen,  and  marched  four- 
teen miles. 

Nov.  10th.  Marched  sixteen  miles;  passed  by  Moreau- 
ville  and  Simmsport,  and  camped  on  the  banks  of  the 
Atchafalaya  Bayou.  The  engineer  corps,  under  command  of 
Captain  Boyd,  were  employed  in  constructing  a  pontoon  bridge 
across  the  bayou.  While  awaiting  the  completion  of  the 
bridge,  many  of  the  troops  employed  their  leisure  time  in 
fishing.  On  the  morning  of  the  12th,  the  troops  crossed  the 
bayou  on  flat-boats,  the  bridge  not  having  been  completed. 
About  sunset  all  the  troops  had  crossed.  We  camped  for  the 
night  near  Colonel  Simms'  residence,  opposite  Simmsport. 

Nov.  13th.  Marched  ten  miles,  in  the  direction  of  the  Mis- 
sissippi Eiver  ;  camped  on  Bayou  Letsworth,  within  four  miles 
of  the  river.  We  remained  at  this  camp  until  the  20th  inst. 
On  the  evening  of  the  14th,  a  detail  of  twenty-four  men  from 
each  regiment  in  the  division  went  on  picket,  at  the  mouth  of 
Red  Eiver.  The  following  day,  the  pioneer  corps,  accompanied 
by  the  8th  Infantry  (Colonel  Young's  Regiment),  and  Daniels', 
Edgar's,  Halderman's,  Semms'  and  West's  Batteries  of  Light 
Artillery  followed  after.  During  the  night  they  took  their 
positions  on  the  banks  of  the  river.  The  morning  of  the  16th 
dawned  to  behold  the  river-bank  bristling  with  cannon,  ready 
to  open  fire  on  any  of  the  enemy's  "  craft "  that  should 
attempt  to  run  the  "  gauntlet."  In  the  afternoon  a  transport 


WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  151 

made  her  appearance,  and  was  signaled  from  the  gun-boats. 
She  "  about-shipped,"  and  returned  up  the  river  again.  Shortly 
after  the  transport  left,  the  gun-boat  Cherokee  hoisted 
anchor,  and  steamed  down  the  river,  on  a  reconnoitering 
tour.  After  passing  our  lowermost  battery,  she  returned 
to  her  mooring  again,  satisfied,  I  suppose,  that  the  banks  of 
the  river  were  clear  of  "  rebels."  Our  artillery  officers,  hav- 
ing received  orders  not  to  waste  any  ammunition  in  firing  at 
gun-boats,  but  to  pay  particular  attention  to  transports, 
allowed  the  gun-boat  to  pass  by  unmolested.  Nothing 
worthy  of  note  transpired  in  camp,  except  the  usual  changes 
of  the  different  regiments  relieving  each  other  on  picket, 
until  the  morning  of  the  18th,  when  along  came  a  transport 
loaded  with  troops.  When  opposite  our  batteries,  she 
rounded  to  and  tied  up,  on  the  opposite  bank  of  the  river, 
waiting,  I  suppose,  until  the  heavy  fog  on  the  river  should 
clear  off.  Morning  at  last  dawned,  and  preparations  were 
made  to  open  fire  on  her.  Three  companies  of  the  16th 
Infantry  were  ordered  to  take  position  on  the  river-bank, 
with  instructions  to  open  fire  on  her  as  soon  as  the  artillery 
fired.  "When  about  ready  to  leave  her  mooring,  our  batteries 
opened  fire  on  her,  tearing  her  from  stem  to  stern.  The 
infantry  fired  some  thirty  rounds  before  she  floated  down 
the  river.  One  of  her  wheel-houses  was  torn  away  ;  the  stove 
in  the  kitchen  was  upset  by  a  cannon-ball ;  and,  from  the 
upsetting  of  the  stove,  the  kitchen  or  cook-house  caught 
fire,  doing  considerable  damage.  The  gun-boat  Cherokee 
soon  came  to  her  assistance,  and  escorted  her  down  the  river. 
From  New  Orleans  papers,  received  in  camp  shortly  after- 
wards, we  learned  that  the  name  of  the  transport  was  the  Black 
Hawk.  After  the  return  of  the  gun-boat  Cherokee,  she  com- 
menced shelling  our  troops,  but  without  doing  any  damage. 
While  the  cannonading  was  going  on,  a  portion  of  Mouton's 
Louisiana  Division  arrived,  in  time  to  participate  in  the 
frolic.  They  seemed  fully  determined  not  to  allow  the  Texas 
troops  to  have  all  the  fun.  As  soon  as  they  had  taken  their 
position,  our  troops  returned  to  camp  on  Bayou  Letsworth, 


152  WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 

excepting  our  artillery,  who  still  remained  to  assist  Mouton's 
troops.  During  the  evening,  five  gun-boats  inade  their  appear- 
ance ;  black  clouds  of  smoke  came  belching  forth  from  their 
chimneys.  When  opposite  our  batteries,  they  rounded  to 
and  formed  for  action.  The  signal  being  given  by  the  Chero- 
kee, "  Bats,  to  your  holes  !  "  was  the  cry  among  the  troops. 
Broadside  after  broadside  was  given  without  dislodging  our 
troops.  Apparently  to  change  their  programme,  they  changed 
their  position  to  cross-firing.  During  the  cannonading, 
our  troops  did  not  return  the  fire,  having  no  ammunition  to 
waste  at  random.  The  cannonading  continued  for  about  three 
hours.  Our  loss  was  one  man  killed.  He  was  killed  while 
playing  cards,  near  the  top  of  the  levee.  A  round  shot 
ricochets,and  strikes  him,  with  a  dull,  heavy  sound,  and  bounds 
over  him.  He  is  stone  dead.  The  two  men  on  each  side  of 
him,  playing  the  game  with  him,  drop  their  cards,  rise  up, 
lift  the  corpse,  lay  it  down  under  a  tree  in  the  rear,  cover  his 
face  with  his  blanket,  come  back  to  the  old  place,  lie  down 
on  the  same  fated  spot,  and  grasp  their  muskets  to  avenge  his 
death,  without  saying  a  word  !  How  brave,  how  cool,  how 
dauntless  these  men  are  !  One  of  the  gun-boats,  more  daring, 
probably,  than  the  rest,  concluded  to  come  close  up  to  the 
river-bank,  to  see,  I  suppose,  whether  the  rebels  had  skedad- 
dled. One  of  our  batteries  opened  fire  on  her,  with  grape 
and  canister,  tearing  away  her  wheel-house,  and  otherwise 
damaging  her,  thus  compelling  her  to  withdraw  in  a  hurry. 
Satisfied,  I  suppose,  that  she  had  experienced  enough  from  the 
rebels,  several  of  the  other  gun-boats  came  to  her  assistance, 
and  towed  her  to  her  anchorage,  at  the  mouth  of  Red  River. 
On  the  morning  of  the  19th,  the  19th  Eegiment  of  Infantry, 
commanded  by  Colonel  "Wash.  Jones,  in  company  with  Dan- 
iels' Battery,  proceeded  down  the  river-bank  to  Morganzia 
Landing,  about  twenty  miles  distant,  to  watch  a  better  oppor- 
tunity for  transports.  On  their  arrival  at  Morganzia  they 
placed  their  battery  so  as  to  sweep  the  river  either  way. 
The  enemy  seemed  to  be  aware  of  their  movements,  as  all  of 
their  transports  were  escorted  by  gun-boats.  On  the  morning 


WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  153 

of  the  20th,  the  division  took  up  the  line  of  march,  in  the 
direction  of  Morganzia  Landing.  After  marching  fifteen 
miles,  we  arrived  at  camp.  "We  remained  at  this  camp  until 
the  evening  of  the  30th,  when  we  took  up  the  line  of  march 
back  again  to  our  old  camp-ground,  on  Bayou  Letsworth. 
During  the  march,  the  19th  Infantry  rejoined  the  command. 
We  encamped  at  our  old  camping-ground  over  night.  The  fol- 
lowing morning,  December  1st,  we  took  up  the  line  of  march 
for  Plaquemine,  a  small  town  on  the  Mississippi  Eiver. 
Marched  twenty  miles  down  Bayou  Letsworth,  and  camped. 

Dec.  2d.  Marched  ten  miles.  Our  march  to-day  was  prin- 
cipally through  a  cane-brake. 

Dec.  3d.  Marched  eighteen  miles.  Passed  by  the  old 
battle-field  of  Bayou  Fordoche.  "We  beheld  several  corpses 
exposed  to  the  rays  of  the  sun,  some  of  them  apparently  only 
half  buried.  A  detail  of  our  men  was  left,  in  charge  of  an 
officer,  to  put  the  graves  in  proper  order.  After  passing  the 
battle-field  some  two  miles,  we  camped  on  Bayou  Gross 
Tete,  where  we  remained  until  the  morning  of  the  8th.  This 
section  of  country  might  have  been  termed  the  "  Paradise  " 
of  Louisiana  before  the  war ;  but  alas,  what  a  change  has 
befallen  it  now !  The  houses  are  all  deserted ;  occasionally  you 
meet  with  a  few  old,  faithful  negroes,  left  by  their  owners  to 
take  care  of  their  place  until  their  return.  Here  you  can 
behold  mansion  after  mansion,  including  costly  sugar-houses, 
now  going  to  decay.  While  we  were  encamped  here  we 
learned  that  the  enemy  was  aware  of  our  programme.  The 
garrison  at  Plaquemine  was  heavily  reinforced,  and,  in  addition 
to  the  reinforcements  of  the  garrison,  there  were  thirteen 
gun-boats,  at  the  mouth  of  Plaquemine  Bayou.  General  Walk- 
er, believing  it  would  be  folly  on  his  part  to  undertake  to 
capture  a  place  which,  even  if  successful,  it  would  be  impossi- 
ble for  him  to  hold,  declined  making  the  attempt ;  conse- 
quently, we  about-faced  and  marched  back  in  the  direction  of 
Morgan's  Ferry,  on  the  Atchafalaya  Bayou.  After  marching 
eight  miles,  we  arrived  at  camp.  While  on  the  march,  the 
16th  Infantry,  commanded  by  Colonel  Flournoy,  and  Captain 


154  WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 

Daniels'  Battery,  were  sent  on  an  expedition  to  the  Mississippi 
River,  to  interrupt  the  passage  of  any  transports  plying  on  the 
river.  The  day  after  their  arrival,  the  steamer  Yan  Pool 
made  her  appearance.  When  opposite  our  battery,  she  was 
summoned  to  surrender.  Not  complying  with  the  request, 
our  troops  opened  fire  on  her,  killing  the  pilot,  and  wounding 
the  captain  and  several  other  parties  on  board.  She  finally 
made  her  escape,  considerably  the  "  worse  for  wear."  After 
the  transport  got  beyond  the  reach  of  our  guns,  our  troops 
withdrew  from  the  river  to  rejoin  their  command.  Soon  after 
they  left,  three  gun-boats  came  down  the  river,  and  com- 
menced shelling  where  they  supposed  the  rebels  were. 

On  the  morning  of  the  9th  we  continued  our  march. 
Marched  twenty-one  miles.  The  weather  commenced  to  be 
squally ;  the  rain  fell  in  torrents ;  many  of  the  troops  were 
unable  to  get  to  camp  ;  our  train  and  artillery  had  to  remain 
in  the  swamps,  the  roads  through  them  being  impassable  in 
the  black  darkness  of  a  cloudy  night.  Their  situation  was  by 
no  means  an  agreeable  one. 

Dec.  10th.  Marched  ten  miles,  and  arrived  at  Morgan's 
Ferry ;  the  rain  was  pouring  down  in  torrents.  The  troops 
quickly  put  up  their  blankets  in  tent  form,  on  their  arrival, 
for  the  purpose  of  making  a  shelter  for  the  night.  The 
roads  were  knee-deep  in  mud,  oftentimes  holding  the  men 
fast,  who,  in  the  struggle,  left  their  shoes  behind,  or  fell  into 
some  hole,  out  of  which  they  were  dragged  coated  over  like 
a  pie-crust.  The  artillery  got  stuck  in  the  mud,  and  the  men 
had  to  drag  it  out.  Sometimes  rider  and  horse  would  roll 
into  deep  ruts.  They  were  soon  up  again,  the  men  and 
horses  looking  like  some  strange  animals  covered  with  a  coat 
of  mud-mail. 


WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  155 


•      CHAPTEE  XXI. 

GENERAL  WALKER'S  REPORT,  GIVING  HIS  REASONS  FOR 
FAILING  TO  ATTACK  PLAQUEMINE. 

Major  W.  M.  LEVY,  A.  A.  &  I.  General  : 

MAJOR, — In  order  to  cany  out  what  I  supposed  to  be  the 
wishes  of  the  Major-General  commanding  the  district, 
that  I  should  attack  the  enemy  at  the  town  of  Plaque- 
mine,  I  left  the  mouth  of  Eed  Eiver  on  the  morning  of 
the  1st  of  December,  and,  after  much  difficulty  in  getting  our 
artillery  and  train  over  the  interior  roads  rendered  neces- 
sary to  take  in  order  to  avoid  the  banks  of  the  Mississippi, 
my  advance  reached  this  point  (Lavina)  last  night.  Pre- 
vious to  my  reaching  here,  my  information  in  regard  to 
the  strength  of  the  enemy's  force  at  Plaquemine,  and  the 
nature  of  the  defenses,  natural  and  artificial,  led  me  to 
hope  it  possible  that,  by  rapid  movements,  we  could  carry  the 
place  by  a  coup  de  main,  before  the  enemy  could  receive  intel- 
ligence of  our  designs,  or  before  he  could  receive  reinforce- 
ments. At  this  point,  however,  I  have  received  the  most 
exact  and  entirely  reliable  information  in  regard  to  the 
strength  of  the  garrison,  and  the  nature  of  the  defenses.  In 
addition,  I  am  well  assured  that  a  spy  of  the  enemy  yester- 
day afternoon  carried  him  the  information  of  our  movement, 
which  leaves  no  longer  a  hope  that  we  will  be  able  to  effect  a 
surprise.  We  are  still  forty  miles  from  the  point  to  be 
attacked.  There  is  an  absolute  certainty  that  we  will  meet 
such  resistance  as  will  render  the  capture  of  Plaquemine,  if 
not  impracticable,  only  possible  at  an  expense  of  life  that  we 
cannot  afford.  I  am  fortified  in  this  opinion  by  the  unani- 
mous concurrence  of  Brigadier-General  Mouton,  command- 


156  WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 

ing  division,  and  his  brigade  commanders,  and  the  brigade 
commanders  of  my  own  division.  The  circumstances  of  my 
position  and  the  great  necessity  to  preserve  from  useless 
sacrifice  the  only  force  left  us  for  the  defense  of  Western 
Louisiana,  compelled  me  to  abandon  the  attempt  on  Plaque- 
mine,  a  position  of  no  strategic  importance,  and  to  content 
myself  for  the  present  with  opposing  such  obstacles  as  may 
be  in  my  power  to  the  navigation  of  the  Mississippi  River. 


WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  157 


CHAPTEB  XXII. 


RECROSSING  THE  ATCHAPALAYA  BAYOU. — MARCH  TO  BAYOU  DE  GLAIZE 
AND  MARKSVILLE. — FORTIFYING  AT  YELLOW  BAYOU. — SPENDING 
CHRISTMAS  IN  CAMP. — PREACHING  IN  CAMP. — OPENING  OF  THE  NEW 
YEAR. — MATCH  DRILL. — GENERAL  HAWS  LEAVES  THE  DIVISION. — 

ARRIVAL    OF    GENERAL    WAUL. — COTTON   SELLING. — OPERATIONS    OF 
SCURRY'S  BRIGADE. — LANDING  OF  THE  ENEMY  AT  SIMMSPORT. 


the  morning  of  December  11,  1863,  we  commenced 
re-crossing  the  Atchafalaya,  at  Morgan's  Ferry. 
After  all  the  troops  had  crossed,  including  Mouton's 
Division,  we  camped  two  miles  from  the  ferry.  The  rain  com- 
menced pouring  down  in  torrents.  We  built  huge  fires,  and 
remained  standing  by  them  ah1  night.  It  was  impossible  to 
lie  down,  as  the  camp-ground  was  entirely  covered  with  water. 

Dec.  12th.  Left  camp  at  sunrise,  without  any  breakfast. 
Marched  ten  miles,  through  the  bottoms,  and  camped  on  the 
bayou  bank. 

Dec.  13th.  Marched  seventeen  miles.  Passed  through  Simms- 
port,  and  camped  on  Bayou  De  Glaize,  about  two  miles  and  a 
half  north  of  Simmsport.  Soon  after  our  arrival  in  camp,  the 
weather  cleared  off.  We  remained  at  this  camp  until  the 
morning  of  the  15th,  when  Haws'  and  Eandall's  Brigades 
were  ordered  to  Marksville,  there  to  go  into  winter  quarters. 
Although  late  in  the  season,  it  was  better  late  than  never. 
Scurry's  Brigade  remained  behind  for  the  protection  of  the 
Atchafalaya  country.  After  the  arrival  of  Haws'  and  Eandall's 
Brigades  at  their  camp,  near  Marksville,  they  commenced 
preparations  to  protect  themselves  from  the  winter's  blast,  by 
building  huts  and  making  their  quarters  comfortable. 

Scurry's  Brigade  was  more  fortunate,  in  having  better  quar- 


158  WALKEE'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 

ters  than  Haws'  and  Eandall's  Brigades.  The  day  after  the 
withdrawal  of  Haws'  and  Kandall's  Brigades,  Scurry's  Brig- 
ade moved  from  their  camp  on  Bayou  De  Glaize,  to  the  Nor- 
wood plantation,  one  mile  north  of  Bayou  De  Glaize,  where 
they  took  possession  of  some  negro  cabins  (then  vacated), 
making  themselves  perfectly  at  home.  A  company  from  each 
regiment  in  the  brigade  was  sent  on  picket  at  Simmsport,  to 
protect  the  pontoon  bridge  in  the  Atchafalaya  Bayou, 
and  to  be  on  the  lookout  for  the  enemy.  Nothing  worthy  of 
notice  transpired  in  camp  until  the  morning  of  the  23d,  when 
Scurry's  Brigade  crossed  the  Atchafalaya  Bayou,  and  pro- 
ceeded in  the  direction  of  the  Mississippi  River,  in  order  to 
capture  a  foraging  party  of  the  enemy  that  was  playing  gen- 
eral havoc  along  the  bank  of  the  Mississippi  River.  The  16th 
Infantry,  commanded  by  Colonel  Flournoy,  was  sent  in  ad- 
vance of  the  brigade  to  ascertain  the  strength  of  the  enemy. 
They  advanced  within  a  few  miles  of  the  enemy's  camp. 
Night  overtaking  them,  they  slept  on  their  arms  during  the 
night. 

We  will  accompany  a  regiment  going  out  on  picket,  in  order 
to  give  our  readers  an  idea  of  how  the  men  got  on.  Their 
blankets  are  thrown  over  their  shoulders ;  their  guns  are  clean 
and  bright ;  they  take  up  the  line  of  march  in  the  direction  of 
the  enemy.  Arriving  within  a  few  miles  of  the  enemy,  they 
halt  and  establish  their  reserve  posts,  while,  further  on,  they 
place  their  pickets,  with  strict  orders  to  keep  a  sharp  lookout. 
It  was  night ;  the  men  had  to  scramble  through  the  brush  and 
trees,  through  ravines,  to  gain  the  different  stations. 

Thus,  our  pickets  in  front  quietly  and  noiselessly  keep  their 
posts.  They  are  relieved  every  two  hours,  and  go  back  to 
join  their  commands,  who  are  grouped  around  a  blazing  fire 
in  some  ravine,  sheltered  from  the  enemy's  observation.  Here 
they  refresh  themselves  out  of  their  haversacks,  and,  perhaps, 
•join  in  a  game  of  cards,  or  listen  to  those  wonderful  tales  that, 
like  those  of  the  "  Arabian  Nights,"  are  got  up  for  the  enter- 
tainment of  the  company. 

Only  the  experienced  can  know  the  real  state  of  a  man's  mind 


WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  159 

when  on  picket  duty,  especially  if  in  hourly  expectation  of 
the  enemy's  approach.  They  alone  can  understand  the  watch- 
fulness and  care  necessary  to  protect  the  line,  as  well  as  the 
body  of  the  sentinel.  Eyes  and  ears  must  be  ever  ready  to 
catch  the  faintest  sound,  and  the  musket  must  be  in  place  for 
instant  duty  in  the  event  of  an  alarm. 

On  the  morning  of  the  24th,  our  pickets  reported  that  the 
enemy  had  embarked  on  board  of  their  transports  during  the 
night,  owing,  I  suppose,  to  hearing  of  our  approach.  Scur- 
ry's Brigade  soon  returned  to  their  old  camping-ground, 
without  the  opportunity  of  having  a  "  brush "  with  the 
enemy. 

Leaving  Scurry's  Brigade  at  their  old  camp,  we  will  proceed 
on  our  journey  to  Marksville,  where  Haws'  and  Eandall's 
Brigades  are  encamped,  and  see  how  they  are  enjoying 
Christmas.  For  the  most  part,  the  men  were  actively  engaged 
during  the  day,  by  the  duties  and  routine  of  camp-life.  It  is 
only  at  night  that  this  busy  hum  of  martial  life  and  bustle 
sinks  into  repose.  Then  five  thousand  camp-fires  glow  and 
sparkle  from  hill  and  dale,  looking,  through  the  darkness  of 
night,  like  the  gas-lights  of  a  city.  The  imagination  can  easily 
picture  the  scene.  The  sentinel's  challenge,  the  sound  of 
music  from  the  bands,  ring  clearly  and  musically  on  the  night 
air ;  and  the  camp-fires  glow  and  flare,  around  which  the 
men  are  grouped,  singing,  joking,  and  laughing,  with  a  light- 
hearted  ease,  as  if  they  never  knew  "  dull  care."  Most  of 
them  are  full  of  practical  jokes,  light  and  sparkling  as 
champagne,  and  had  a  gay  faculty  of  taking  the  sunny  side  of 
everything.  Near  one  of  the  huge  fires  a  kind  of  arbor  was 
nicely  constructed  of  the  branches  of  trees,  whiqh  were  so  in- 
terwoven as  to  form  a  kind  of  wall.  Inside  this  were  seated 
a  couple  of  fiddlers,  making  elegant  music  on  their  fiddles. 
Around  the  fire,  groups  were  dancing  jigs,  reels,  and  doubles. 
Even  the  officers'  colored  servants  had  collected  in  a  group  by 
themselves,  and,  while  some  timed  the  music  by  slapping  their 
hands  on  their  knees,  others  were  capering  and  whirling 
around  in  the  most  grotesque  manner,  showing  their  white 


160  WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 

teeth  as  they  grinned  their  delight,  or  "  yah,  yah"ed,  at  the 
boisterous  fun. 

It  is  no  wonder  that  a  great  portion  of  the  troops  were 
gathered  around  there,  for  it  was  Christmas  night,  and  home 
thoughts  and  home  longings  were  crowding  on  them ;  and  old 
scenes  and  fancies  would  arise,  with  sad  and  loving  memories, 
until  the  heart  grew  weary,  and  even  the  truest  and  tenderest 
longed  for  home  associations  that  blessed  Christmas  night. 
On  the  right  of  the  camp-ground  was  another  arbor,  lately 
erected  for  prayer-meetings  at  night.  It  was  beautifully  lighted 
up  with  burning  pine-knots.  Gathered  under  the  arbor  were  a 
number  of  soldiers,  quietly  and  attentively  listening  to  the 
words  which  fell  from  the  lips  of  the  preacher  standing  in 
their  midst — the  preacher  with  his  gray  locks  and  wrinkled 
brow  showing  the  foot-prints  of  time.  Amongst  the  groups 
of  eager  listeners  were  men  just  entering  the  threshold  of  life, 
yet  whose  vocations  placed  their  feet  upon  the  verge  of  the 
grave.  The  rows  of  tents,  the  black  groupings  of  adjacent  shel- 
ters, all  made  an  impressive  scene.  Occasionally,  mingling  with 
the  preacher's  words,  came  laughter  from  some  group  assembled 
round  a  camp-fire  near  by,  or  a  shout  of  some  unthinking,  free- 
hearted stroller  about  camp.  Words  rich  with  eloquent  mean- 
ing rolled  from  that  aged  preacher's  lips,  like  rippling  waves 
of  ocean,  successively,  rapidly,  breaking  upon  a  sandy  shore; 
the  light  of  hidden  power  burned  in  his  eyes,  as  he  pleaded 
— warned  his  hearers  of  the  life  to  come,  and  the  consequences 
of  an  unprepared  condition  for  its  hidden  realities.  The  ex- 
hortation finished,  a  closing  hymn  was  sung,  rolling  its  waves 
of  fine  melody  out  upon  the  night's  still  air,  over  the  adjacent 
prairies.  The  benediction  pronounced,  the  audience  dispersed 
to  discuss — some  in  serious,  others  in  j'ocular  vein — the  sub- 
ject-matter of  the  discourse. 

Such  is  one  of  the  occasional,  more  impressive  scenes  from 
camp-life  on  a  Christmas  night. 

No  wonder  if,  amidst  such  scenes,  the  soldier's  thoughts  fled 
back  to  his  home,  to  his  loved  wife,  to  the  kisses  of  his  darling 
child,  to  the  fond  Christmas  greetings  of  his  parents,  brothers, 


WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  161 

sisters,  and  friends,  until  his  eyes  were  dimmed  with  the  dews 
of  his  heart.  The  soldier  feels  a  longing  desire,  particularly 
at  Christmas-time,  for  the  pleasant,  genial  firesides  and  lov- 
ing hearts  of  home.  How  many  of  that  group,  ere  another 
Christmas  comes  around,  will  sleep  in  a  bloody  and  nameless 
grave  ?  Generous  and  kind  hands  may  smooth  the  dying  sol- 
dier's couch,  or  he  may  linger  for  days,  tortured  by  thirst  and 
pain,  his  festering  wounds  creeping  with  maggots,  his  tongue 
swollen,  and  a  fierce  fever  fastening  upon  his  body,  as  he  lies 
out  on  that  dreary  battle-field ;  or,  perhaps,  he  has  dragged 
himself  beneath  the  shade  of  some  pine-tree,  to  die  by  inches, 
where  no  eye  but  God's  and  his  pitying  angels'  shall  see  him, 
where  no  human  aid  can  succor  him.  Years  afterwards,  some 
wayfarer  may  discover  a  skeleton,  with  the  remains  of  a  knap- 
sack under  the  skull.  This  is  too  often  the  end  of  the  sol- 
dier's dreams  of  glory,  and  all 

"  The  pride,  pomp,  and  circumstance  of  glorious  war." 

It  is  but  a  short  transition  from  love,  and  hope,  and  life,  to 
sorrow  and  death.  Another  Christmas,  and  many  a  Texas 
home  will  be  steeped  in  affliction  for  the  loving  friends  who 
have  laid  their  bones  on  the  battle-fields  of  Arkansas  and 
Louisiana. 

Dec.  26th.  To-day,  the  troops  received  four  months'  pay,  in 
Confederate  money,  a  species  of  money  not  very  useful  to  the 
soldier. 

Dec.  27th.  Last  night  we  had  a  heavy  thunder-storm  and 
bitter  norther ;  but,  after  rain,  look  out  for  the  rise  in  Bed 
Biver,  and  the  Atchafalaya  Bayou  !  Everything  was  very  wet, 
and  the  camp-fires  had  hardly  begun  to  smoke,  when  there 
was  an  alarm  of  gun-boats  coming  up  Bed  Biver.  "  Fall  in ! " 
was  shouted  on  all  sides.  So  soon  as  the  different  regiments 
were  formed  in  line,  the  alarm  proved  to  be  a  hoax.  The 
troops  returned  to  their  quarters,  and  resumed  cooking  their 
breakfast ;  the  day  was  spent  in  growling  about  the  parties  that 
gave  the  false  alarm. 

Dec.  28.  To-day  opened  with  cold,  piercing  weather -;,  in  the 


162  WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 

afternoon,  it  commenced  to  snow.  The  men  retired  under 
their  blankets,  and  into  their  huts.  The  wind  howled  above 
us,  and  the  snow  fell  thick  and  fast. 

Dec.  29th.  During  last  night  the  weather  cleared  up,  but 
notwithstanding  that,  the  morning  was  dark,  damp,  and 
gloomy,  enveloping  the  prairie  near  us  in  such  an  impenetra- 
ble fog  that  nothing  was  discernible  in  the  direction  of  the 
river.  At  noon,  however,  the  sun  appeared  and  rapidly  ab- 
sorbed the  veil  in  its  majestic  brightness.  At  dress-parade, 
orders  were  read  to  us,  that  no  person  was  allowed  to  cross 
the  Atchafalaya  without  a  permit  from  district  headquarters. 
If  this  caution  had  prevailed  from  the  commencement,  it  would 
have  kept  out  the  Yankee  spies,  who  were  acting  in  the  garb 
of  cotton  buyers,  and  at  the  same  time  gathering  all  the  in- 
formation necessary  for  the  enemy  to  profit  by.  Many  of  the 
troops  suspected  there  was  foul  play  used  in  some  manner  or 
shape,  and  meetings  were  held  among  themselves,  denouncing 
the  cotton-buying  scheme  as  an  act  of  treason  to  the  honest 
and  patriotic  people  of  the  South.  In  this  movement  I  con- 
sider they  acted  with  prudence  and  forethought,  as  they  had 
justifiable  grounds  for  their  action.  Many  of  our  men  that 
were  taken  prisoners  at  Pleasant  Hill,  afterwards  recognized 
some  of  the  said  cotton-buyers  acting  in  the  capacity  of  staff 
officers  to  General  Banks,  the  Federal  commander.  After  the 
troops  had  the  assurance  that  no  more  cotton  would  be  sold  to 
the  enemy,  nothing  unusual  transpired  in  camp,  except  the  gen- 
eral routine  of  camp-life,  such  as  guard-duty,  drills,  details 
for  cleaning  camp,  cutting  wood,  bringing  water,  and  the  vari- 
ous other  daily  duties  upon  which  our  boys  throve  and  grew 
fat.  The  gay  songs  and  amusing  incidents,  so  common  to  a 
soldier's  life,  kept  us  all  in  fine  spirits,  and  were  sources  of 
pleasure  in  helping  to  beguile  time  of  its  monotony,  until  the 
morning  of  the  30th,  when  it  was  generally  reported  in  camp 
that  five  gun-boats  and  one  transport  loaded  with  troops  had 
arrived  at  the  mouth  of  the  Atchafalaya  Bayou.  In  the  mean 
time,  General  Scurry  had  formed  his  brigade  and  Haider- 
man's  Battery  at  Simmsport,  to  give  the  enemy  a  warm  recep- 


WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  163 

tion  in  case  they  made  their  appearance.  Late  in  the  even- 
ing, we  learned,  much  to  our  surprise,  that  the  enemy  was  on 
their  way  up  Black  Kiver,  to  attack  Fort  Beauregard  again,  at 
Harrisonburg.  General  Polignac's  Division  crossed  Bed  Kiver 
to  harass  and  annoy  the  enemy,  which  they  accomplished, 
compelling  them  to  withdraw  from  Black  River,  without  being 
able  to  reach  Fort  Beauregard.  Our  loss  was  comparatively 
small,  while  the  enemy's  must  have  been  great.  General 
Polignac's  troops  fought  them  an  entire  day  from  behind  the 
levee,  killing  many  of  their  pilots  and  gunners. 

Thus  closed  the  monotony  of  camp  life  for  the  year  1863. 
The  weather  was  unusually  rainy  and  stormy ;  yet  happy, 
very  many  happy  hours  were  spent  in  those  rough  huts,  de- 
spite storms  without. 

The  new  year  dawned  clear  and  pleasant,  with  the  thunder 
of  war  echoing  over  the  land.  The  year  1864  witnessed  one 
of  the  most  fierce,  desperate,  and  bloody  struggles  that  the 
world  had  ever  seen.  The  holidays  passed  away  without 
anything  of  interest  transpiring.  Of  course  the  towns  of 
Alexandria  and  Shreveport  were  the  theater  of  many  gay  and 
festive  scenes  among  the  post-officers.  To  the  private  soldier 
they  differed  little  from  other  days.  He  had  the  same  round 
of  duties  to  perform,  without  relaxation  or  relief.  Ah  !  how 
he  missed  the  joyous  scenes  and  festivities  of  more  peaceful 
times,  when  he  mingled  in  gay  throngs,  or  participated  in  the 
pleasant  reunions  around  the  home  altar !  Such  memories 
were  of  the  past,  while  the  present  was  full  of  clouded  reali- 
ties, and  the  future  seemed  to  contain  no  olive-branch  of 
peace  for  the  land. 

The  excitement  about  the  gun-boats  being  pretty  much 
over,  Scurry's  Brigade  commenced  building  fortifications  at 
the  mouth  of  Yellow  Bayou,  a  short  distance  from  Simrnsport. 
Nothing  of  any  importance  transpired  in  camp  until  the  morn- 
ing of  the  13th,  when  it  was  again  reported  that  the  enemy's 
gun-boats  had  entered  the  mouth  of  Eed  River,  and  it  was 
generally  supposed  that  they  would  ascend  up  as  far  as  Alex- 
andria, or  perhaps  attempt  to  enter  the  Atchafalaya  Bayou, 


164  WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 

and  destroy  the  pontoon  bridge.  On  the  morning  of  the  14th 
our  pickets  reported  that  the  gun-boats  had  withdrawn  during 
the  night.  After  the  excitement  about  the  gun-boats  had 
died  away,  nothing  of  interest  transpired  in  camp  until  the 
morning  of  the  20th,  when  a  match-drill  for  an  elegant  banner 
took  place  between  the  8th  Kegiment  (Colonel  Young's)  of 
Haws'  Brigade,  and  the  llth  Regiment  (Colonel  Roberts')  of 
Randall's  Brigade.  The  banner  was  awarded  to  the  8th 
Regiment,  by  .General  Walker,  in  a  neat  and  appropriate 
speech. 

The  ordinary  routine  of  camp  duties  took  place  every  day 
without  disturbing  the  monotony  of  a  soldier's  life — without 
anything  worthy  of  notice,  until  the  first  day  of  February, 
when  a  squad  of  100  men,  from  Scurry's  Brigade,  crossed  the 
Atchafalaya  Bayou,  for  the  purpose  of  capturing  a  company 
of  the  enemy  that  was  encamped  on  the  opposite  bank  of  the 
Mississippi  River.  Our  troops  intended  to  cross  the  river 
during  the  night,  on  an  old  flat-boat  they  had  secured.  After 
arriving  at  the  bank  of  the  river,  they  waited  until  dark. 
After  they  embarked  on  board,  they  discovered  that  the  boat 
was  in  a  leaky  condition  and  not  safe ;  consequently  they  re- 
turned to  their  camp  the  following  day.  In  the  mean  time 
Captain  Clark,  of  General  Scurry's  staff,  crossed  the  river  in 
a  skiff,  and  set  fire  to  a  large  quantity  of  the  enemy's  cotton 
that  was  piled  up  opposite  the  mouth  of  Red  River. 

The  balance  of  the  month  of  February  passed  by  without 
hearing  any  further  news  from  the  enemy's  gun-boats.  The 
troops  were  enjoying  fine  health.  A  liberal  system  of  fur- 
lough ing  was  granted  by  General  Walker,  which  gave  general 
satisfaction  to  the  troops. 

During  the  latter  part  of  February,  Brigadier-General  Haws, 
commanding  the  1st  Brigade,  was  relieved  from  command, 
and  was  assigned  to  the  command  of  Galveston  Island,  Texas. 
Genera]  Haws  was  an  officer  very  much  respected  by  his 
troops.  Before  his  departure  for  Texas,  a  meeting  of  the 
officers  and  soldiers  of  his  brigade  was  held,  in  order  to  ex- 
press their  feelings.  The  meeting  was  a  large  and  enthusi- 


WALKERS  TEXAS  DIVISION.  165 

astic  one,  and  prominent  speakers  were  on  hand.  A  commit- 
tee was  appointed  to  draft  resolutions  in  regard  to  the  loss  of 
their  commander.  The  resolutions  were  as  follows,  and  were 
fully  indorsed  by  the  entire  troops  of  his  brigade  : 

"  Whereas,  we  are  called  upon  to  surrender  our  honored 
commander,  Brigadier-General  J.  M.  Haws,  to  another  field 
of  duty,  in  the  holy  cause  of  our  struggling  country,  the  wis- 
dom of  whose  rulers  has  selected  him  to  a  sphere  of  action 
more  consonant  with  his  acknowledged  abilities, 

"  Therefore,  Resolved,  That  we  cannot  permit  him  to  de- 
part without  bearing  with  him  an  earnest  expression  of  our 
high  regard.  By  his  mild,  but  firm,  discipline,  his  unflinching 
pursuit  of  the  dictates  of  duty,  coupled  with  a  paternal  solici- 
tude for  the  safety  and  comfort  of  his  troops,  he  has  now  not 
only  the  esteem,  but  the  unfeigned  affection  of  every  officer 
and  soldier  of  his  command.  Happily  combining  the  most 
distinguished  traits  of  a  soldier  and  a  gentlemao,  he  required 
not  our  cordial  wishes,  however  eagerly  tendered,  to  insure 
the  proudest  success,  wherever  duty  may  call  or  his  own  fer- 
vid patriotism  lead  him." 

Shortly  after  General  Haws'  departure,  Brigadier- General 
T.  N.  "VVaul  (late  of  Ward's  Legion)  arrived  in  camp  from 
Texas  to  take  command  of  the  1st  Brigade.  The  following 
officers  comprised  his  staff,  viz. : 

'  Major  H.  B.  ADAMS,  Quartermaster. 
"     M.  S.  MUNSON,  Commissary. 
Capt.  JOHN  G.  ASHE,  Asst.  Imp. -General. 
1st  Lieut.  R.  W.  BRODUAX,  Aid-de-Camp. 
Capt.  ADOLPH  KING,  Asst.  Adjt.- General. 

On  the  first  day  of  March,  four  gun-boats,  loaded  with 
troops,  ascended  the  Washita  River  to  Fort  Beauregard,  at 
Harrisonburg,  for  the  purpose  of  again  destroying  the  fort. 
When  this  fort  had  been  occupied  previously  by  the  Federal 
troops,  they  destroyed  it,  as  they  believed,  forever ;  but  as 
soon  as  they  adjourned,  after  their  depredations,  sufficient 
force  was  employed  to  make  the  fort  impregnable  against 
any  force  hereafter  that  the  enemy  might  bring  against  it. 


166  WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 

Heavy  firing  was  heard  in  the  direction  of  Fort  Beaure- 
gard.  After  bombarding  the  fort  for  several  hours  they 
finally  withdrew,  without  doing  much  harm  to  the  fort  or  gar- 
rison. 

On  the  evening  of  the  4th,  the  gun-boats  that  had  been 
bombarding  Fort  Beauregard  made  their  appearance  off  the 
Atchafalaya  Bayou.  Captain  Halderman's  Battery  was  placed 
in  position  at  Simmsport,  supported  by  Scurry's  Brigade, 
where  they  awaited  the  approach  of  the  enemy.  Late  in  the 
evening  a  courier  arrived  from  the  mouth  of  the  bayou,  and 
informed  General  Scurry  that  the  gun-boats  had  withdrawn. 
On  the  morning  of  the  5th,  General  Scurry's  Brigade  quit 
work  on  the  fortification  known  as  Fort  Humbug,  on  Yellow 
Bayou,  which  proved  afterwards  a  very  appropriate  name. 

March  6th.  All  of  the  sick  of  the  division  were  ordered  to 
be  sent  to  Alexandria,  there  to  be  transported  on  boats  to 
Shreveport. 

On  the  evening  of  the  7th,  Scurry's  Brigade  was  notified  to 
hold  itself  in  readiness  to  march  at  a  moment's  notice  ;  news 
was  received  that  Banks'  army,  numbering  some  30,000,  was 
encamped  at  Brashear  City,  and  its  destination  supposed  to 
be  the  Eed  River  country.  Having  received  no  further  news 
from  the  enemy  until  the  llth,  no  particular  notice  was  taken 
of  the  alarm.  We  ascertained  on  that  day  that  the  enemy 
was  encamped  near  the  town  of  Franklin,  on  Bayou  Teche. 
On  the  evening  of  the  12th,  Scurry's  Brigade  took  its  position 
at  "  Fort  Humbug."  They  learned  that  several  of  the  enemy's 
gun-boats  and  transports,  loaded  with  troops,  had  arrived  at 
Simmsport,  even  before  our  infantry  pickets  were  informed  by 
our  cavalry  pickets  of-  the  approach  of  the  enemy.  Our  in- 
fantry pickets  were  taken  completely  by  surprise.  They  made 
a  narrow  escape  from  being  captured. 

General  Scurry  was  not  a  commander  to  be  daunted; 
neither  he  nor  his  troops  feared  to  meet  the  enemy,  whatever 
might  be  their  numbers — however  tried  their  bravery.  From 
information  received  afterwards,  it  seems  that  General  Scurry 
was  aware  of  the  approach  of  the  enemy :  he  was  informed  a 


WALKEK'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  167 

few  days  previous,  by  a  young  lady  living  across  the  Atcha- 
falaya  Bayou.  The  heroism  of  this  young  lady,  riding  several 
miles  through  the  woods,  showed  what  Southern  women 
would  do  for  their  country.  It  is  to  be  regretted  that  her 
name  was  not  jotted  down  to  adorn  the  pages  of  this  his- 
tory. Yet  she  is  not  forgotten  in  the  minds  of  Scurry's 
Brigade. 

General  Scurry,  hearing  of  the  landing  of  the  enemy  at 
Simmsport,  at  once  sent  a  courier  to  General  Walker,  inform- 
ing him  of  the  landing  of  the  enemy.  Scurry's  Brigade,  hav- 
ing remained  in  line  of  battle  some  time  without  seeing  or 
hearing  anything  about  the  enemy,  had  some  doubts  about 
their  landing.  Many  of  the  troops  even  doubted  the  landing 
of  the  enemy ;  but  they  soon  learned  that  the  report  was 
too  true,  by  the  rapid  advance  of  our  infantry  pickets,  in  a 
«'  double-quick,"  coming  towards  us.  On  their  arrival  we 
learned  from  them  that  the  banks  of  the  Atchafalaya  were 
literally  crowded  with  live  Yankees.  They  informed  us, 
furthermore,  that  they  lost  ah1  their  cooking  utensils,  and,  if 
they  had  not  been  better  runners  than  the  Yankees,  they  would 
have  had  them  with  their  cooking  utensils.  General  Scurry's 
line  of  battle  was  so  arranged  that,  in  case  of  an  attack  from 
the  front,  the  attacking  battery  would  suffer  severely  before 
they  would  be  able  to  cross  the  bayou  in  front  of  our  fortifi- 
cations. The  bridge  across  Yellow  Bayou  was  destroyed  by 
our  pioneer  corps,  after  our  infantry  pickets  had  crossed. 
General  Scurry  and  staff  appeared  to  be  in  the  height  of  their 
glory,  as  they  rode  along  the  line.  General  Scurry  made  a 
brief  remark  to  his  troops,  informing  them  that,  although  he 
did  not  make  a  speech  to  them  when  he  took  command  of  the 
brigade,  when  called  upon  to  do  so,  he  would  now  address 
them  a  few  words,  and  the  sum  and  substance  of  his  remarks 
were,  "  that  he  expected  every  officer  and  soldier  of  his  bri- 
gade to  do  his  duty."  Three  hearty  cheers  were  given  for 
General  Scurry,  three  for  General  Walker,  and  three  for 
"Fort  Humbug."  After  the  cheering  had  terminated,  the 
troops  waited  anxiously  behind  their  breastworks,  until  late 


168  WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 

in  the  evening,  expecting  to  see  the  blue-coated  gentlemen  ; 
but  it  seems  they  took  matters  coolly,  from  the  fact  that  they 
remained  behind  the  protection  of  their  gun-boats  until  the 
following  morning,  apparently  not  caring  whether  Scurry's 
Brigade  held  possession  of  Fort  Humbug  or  not. 


WALKEB'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  169 


CHAPTEE  XXIII. 

THE  RETREAT  FROM  YELLOW  BAYOU  TO  MANSFIELD. — GENERAL  SCURRY'S 
REPORT  OF  HIS  OPERATIONS. — LINE  OF  BATTLE. — CAPTURE  OF  FORT 
DE  RUSSY.  — "BULL  BATTERY."  —  A  STAMPEDE.  — ARRIVAL  OF  THE 
ENEMY  AT  ALEXANDRIA. — FORCED  MARCHES. — CAPTURE  OF  EDGAR'S 
BATTERY  AND  THE  3D  LOUISIANA  CAVALRY. — PREPARING  FOR  BATTLE. 
— DOUBLE-QUICKING. — ARRIVAL  OF  GREEN'S  CAVALRY. 


ENEEAL  WALKEE,  having  been  notified  of  the 
strength  of  the  enemy  at  Simmsport,  which  consisted 
of  some  15,000  infantry,  2,000  cavalry,  and  a  like  pro- 
portion of  artillery,  numbering  in  all  about  18,000,  part  of 
the  same  forces  that  had  been  operating  in  the  State  of  Mis- 
sissippi, under  General  Sherman,  and  commanded  by  Gen- 
eral A.  J.  Smith,  immediately  ordered  General  Scurry  to  fall 
back  and  join  the  main  forces  of  the  division,  near  Marks- 
ville.  Scurry's  Brigade,  after  taking  a  final  adieu  of  Fort 
Humbug,  left  their  camp  about  10  o'clock  at  night,  and  fell 
back  slowly.  After  marching  twelve  miles  they  camped  near 
Moreauville.  The  following  morning  they  marched  five  miles 
and  formed  a  junction  with  the  balance  of  the  troops,  at  the 
Long  Bridge,  near  Moreauville. 

During  the  day,  the  enemy  advanced  in  force  as  far  as 
Moreauville,  while  their  cavalry  came  a  mile  or  two  beyond, 
capturing  three  wagons  belonging  to  Scurry's  Brigade,  which 
had  been  sent  back  to  their  old  camp  after  baggage.  After 
encountering  our  pickets  they  fell  back. 

GENERAL  SCURRY'S  REPORT  OF  HIS  OPERATIONS. 

Major  E.  P.  McCLAY,  A.  A.  General  : 

For  the  information  of  the  General  commanding,  I  have 
the  honor  to  report,  that  on  the  12th  I  was  informed  by  the 


170  WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 

pickets  stationed  at  Bed  River  Landing,  on  the  Mississippi 
River,  that  three  transports,  crowded  with  troops,  accom- 
panied by  two  gun-boats,  had  entered  the  mouth  of  Eed 
River.  Almost  simultaneously  a  courier  from  the  pickets 
on  Old  River  arrived  with  information  that  these  vessels  had 
entered  the  Atchafalaya,  and  that  fourteen  gun-boats  had 
entered  the  mouth  of  Red  River.  I  immediately  put  the  bri- 
gade in  motion  for  Simmsport,  intending,  if  I  arrived  in  time,  to 
oppose,  with  all  the  means  at  my  disposal,  their  landing ;  or,  in 
case  they  had  landed,  to  drive  them  aboard  their  vessels. 
My  brigade  numbered  about  1,400  bayonets,  with  Haider- 
man's  Battery  of  Light  Artillery,  while  the  force  of  the  enemy 
aboard  of  their  transports  was  supposed  to  be,  at  least, 
2,000.  With  no  greater  disparity  than  this,  I  felt  perfectly 
confident  of  my  ability  to  attack  them  with  success.  My 
command  had  passed  the  works  at  Yellow  Bayou,  when  I 
received  information  that  fifteen  additional  transports  had 
entered  the  Atchafalaya,  loaded  with  troops,  escorted  by 
three  more  gun-boats ;  that  ten  transports,  with  troops 
aboard,  and  ten  gun-boats  had  gone  up  Red  River.  The 
movement  down  the  Atchafalaya  had,  for  the  moment 
severed  all  communication  with  the  small  body  of  cavalry 
stationed  east  of  the  bayou,  for  the  purpose  of  observing  the 
enemy's  proceedings  on  the  Mississippi  ;  thus  depriving  me 
of  all  means  of  watching  a  road  leading  from  Red  River, 
around  the  big  bend  of  Bayou  De  Glaize,  to  Moreauville,  im- 
mediately in  my  rear.  This  road  was  perfectly  practicable 
for  an  army  of  all  arms ;  and  if  the  enemy  chose  to  avail 
himself  of  it,  he  might  interpose  a  superior  force  between  me 
and  other  brigades  of  the  division,  and  thus  prevent  my  join- 
ing them  with  my  command. 

To  preserve  my  communications  with  the  forces  under  the 
immediate  command  of  the  Major-General,  I  resolved  to  fall 
back  beyond  the  junction  of  the  two  roads,  without  engaging 
the  enemy  ;  for  an  engagement  at  that  time  could  have  had 
no  other  object  than  to  ascertain  the  number  of  the  enemy's 
forces.  A  conflict  for  such  purpose  would  have  resulted  in  a 


WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  171 

useless  waste  of  life  and  blood,  if  not  have  hazarded  the 
loss  of  the  entire  command,  for  an  object  that  could  be  better 
attained  by  other  means.  A  nearer  approximation  of  their 
numbers  could  be  had  by  ascertaining  the  number  of  vessels 
engaged  in  the  transportation  of  the  troops  ;  and  this,  before 
leaving,  I  definitely  ascertained  to  be  twenty-seven  trans- 
ports, which  landed  their  troops  at  Simmsport,  and  which,  at  a 
low  estimate,  would  give  them  18,000,  including  those  on  the 
ten  transports  that  had  gone  up  Eed  Kiver.  In  addition  to 
this  there  were  equally  urgent  considerations  impelling  me  to 
place  myself  immediately  within  easy  distance  of  the  other 
brigades  of  the  division.  The  forces  in  front  of  me  were  a 
portion  of  Sherman's  command  ;  of  this  there  could  be  no 
doubt.  They  came  doitm,  not  up  the  Mississippi  River.  We 
had  learned  from  various  sources,  the  most,  reliable  of  which 
was  proven — the  Major-General  commanding  the  district  of 
"Western  Louisiana  having  expressed  his  belief  in  its  truth — 
and  which  subsequent  movements  have  proven  to  be  true, 
that  General  Banks  was  organizing  a  very  large  force  for  an 
advance  upon  Alexandria,  by  way  of  Opelousas  and  the 
Bceuf,  and  that  its  appearance  might  be  momentarily  ex- 
pected. It  was  evident  that  any  delay  in  getting  out  of  the 
trap  thus  laid  for  us  would  enable  the  foe  to  successfully 
accomplish  the  destruction  of  any  of  our  forces  that  should 
be  caught  between  them.  Ordering  the  teams  and  other 
public  property  back  to  the  bridge  on  Bayou  De  Glaize,  I 
returned  to  my  old  position  in  the  rear  of  the  works  on  Yel- 
low Bayou.  These  works  were  rendered  almost  useless  for 
purposes  of  defense  ;  the  swamps,  which,  from  being  usiially 
impassable  at  this  season  of  the  year,  had  been  relied  on  to 
protect  their  flanks — otherwise  without  protection — having 
dried  up,  and  being  perfectly  practicable  for  troops.  I  de- 
termined, however,  to  avail  myself  of  whatever  impediments 
they  would  oppose  to  the  advance  of  the  enemy,  and  re- 
mained in  position  until  10  o'clock,  P.M.,  and  then  moved 
leisurely  and  without  interruption  back,  and  found  the  train 
encamped  at  the  bridge  on  Bayou  De  Glaize.  Up  to  this  time 


172  WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 

the  Major-General  had  been  constantly  notified,  by  courier,  of 
my  movements.  At  this  point  I  received  a  communication  from 
him,  directing  me  to  delay  the  enemy  as  much  as  possible,  to 
enable  him  to  make  the  necessary  arrangements  to  secure  the 
public  property  at  Marksville,  and  that  we  would  form  a  junc- 
tion near  Mansura.  The  position  I  occupied  at  the  bridge  on 
Bayou  De  Glaize  being  such  that,  in  any  conflict  there,  the 
enemy  would  be  able  to  avail  himself  to  the  utmost  of  his 
great  superiority  of  numbers,  I  determined  to  take  position 
in  the  light  works  at  the  long  bridge  over  Bayou  De  Bout. 
In  the  afternoon,  after  everything  was  crossed  over,  the 
bridge  was  burned,  and  the  brigade  moved  about  two  miles 
to  the  last-mentioned  place,  and  took  position  there  for  the 
purpose  of  making  a  stand.  The  position  was  naturally  a 
strong  one,  and  had  been  somewhat  strengthened  by  the 
construction  of  the  light  works  alluded  to.  I  hoped  to  be  able 
to  hold  the  enemy  in  check  here  until  the  Major-General  had 
completed  his  arrangements.  His  arrival  in  person  relieved 
me  from  further  doubts,  and  his  assuming  command  put  an 
end  to  all  further  independent  action  on  my  part. 
(Signed,)  W.  E.  SCURRY, 

Brig.-General  Commanding. 

On  the  arrival  of  General  Walker,  the  division  lay  under 
arms  all  night  (at  the  long  bridge),  behind  some  breastworks 
that  were  previously  built  by  the  Louisiana  troops,  for  the 
better  protection  of  the  bridge.  It  became  necessary  to  burn 
the  bridge,  to  prevent  the  rapid  advance  of  the  enemy,  on 
Fort  De  Eussy,  the  key  of  Eed  Eiver. 

General  Walker  established  his  headquarters  under  a  large 
tree,  fronting  the  bridge.  In  the  meantime  a  heavy  picket 
force  under  command  of  Colonel  Gregg,  of  the  16th  Dis- 
mounted Cavalry,  was  ordered  to  watch  the  movements  of  the 
enemy  till  daylight,  when  General  Walker  would  be  able  to 
make  the  best  disposition  of  his  troops.  During  the  night 
our  wagon-train  was  moved  across  Bayou  De  Lac.  The  fol- 
lowing morning  we  marched  to  within  half  a  mile  of  the 


WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  173 

village  of  Mansura,  built  in  the  middle  of  a  prairie,  and  dis- 
tant from  the  "  Long  Bridge  "  about  two  miles.  Line  of 
battle  was  at  once  formed.  General  Walker  made  every 
preparation  to  give  battle  at  this  place.  He  had  selected 
level  ground  for  his  infantry  to  maneuver  about  on,  while 
the  site  was  solid  enough  for  his  artillery.  He  was  so 
closely  pursued  that  he  was  obliged  to  interrupt  the  enemy's 
march  in  order  to  be  able  to  get  his  wagon-train  out  of  the 
way.  Besides,  a  retreating  army  must  have  some  start,  that 
they  may  be  able  to  sleep  and  eat.  It  ought  also  not  to  have 
the  enemy  too  close  to  it ;  for  to  suffer  an  attack  by  the  way, 
with  their  backs  turned,  is  the  most  dangerous  manner  of  re- 
ceiving battle.  There  is  then  a  moment,  when  the  wisest  thing 
that  can  be  done  is  to  choose  one's  ground,  and  there  halt  to 
fight.  Such  was  the  resolution  adopted  by  General  Walker. 
The  generalship  displayed  on  this  occasion,  considering  the 
disadvantages  under  which  he  labored,  has  not  been  excelled 
during  the  war. 

With  a  force  of  only  about  6,000  men,  and  without  a  sufficient 
force  of  cavalry  to  watch  the  movements  of  the  enemy,  he 
kept  at  bay  an  army  of  18,000,  thereby  showing  his  opponent, 
General  A.  J.  Smith,  that  he  had  to  deal  with  a  foeman 
worthy  of  his  steel. 

The  enemy  had  us  apparently  in  a  tight  place  (if  they  were 
not  afraid),  for,  by  throwing  a  force  up  Bayou  De  Glaize,  they 
might  have  cut  off  our  only  road  of  retreat.  As  long  as  we 
remained  in  line  of  battle,  they  made  no  move  to  come  out  of 
the  timber. 

General  Walker,  seeing  no  possible  chance  of  the  enemy 
giving  battle,  and  knowing  that  Banks'  army  was  moving 
across  the  country  to  intercept  him,  fell  slowly  back  to  Bayou 
De  Lac,  marching  twenty-eight  miles  closely  pursued  by  the 
Federals.  Luring  the  evening,  our  forces  in  the  rear  were 
much  harassed  by  the  enemy's  cavalry,  but  a  well-planned 
and  executed  ambush,  at  the  end  of  a  lane,  resulted  in  wound- 
ing several  of  them,  and  putting  the  balance  to  flight ;  this 
deterred  them  from  pressing  the  pursuit,  and  by  night  it  had 


174  WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 

ceased  altogether.  The  bridge  across  Bayou  De  Lac  was 
burned  after  all  the  troops  had  crossed  over. 

By  this  maneuver  General  Walker  drew  the  whole  force  of 
the  enemy  upon  the  prairie,  and,  the  bridge  being  burned, 
rendered  pursuit  impossible,  except  by  Mansura  or  Bayou  De 
Glaize,  a  distance  of  some  twenty  miles,  to  Bayou  Hough- 
power  ;  while  for  us  it  was  but  five  miles. 

After  we  crossed  Bayou  De  Lac,  the  enemy  advanced  in 
the  direction  of  Fort  De  Bussy,  on  Bed  Biver,  to  co-operate 
with  their  gun-boats.  They  went  forward  some  10,000  strong, 
and  were  repulsed  several  times,  with  heavy  loss.  Finally 
they  were  reinforced  by  the  whole  of  A.  J.  Smith's  com- 
mand. They  came  up  in  such  numbers  as  to  crowd  entirely 
into  the  fort. 

Fort  De  Bussy  is  situated  three  miles  from  Marksville,  on 
Bed  Biver.  The  garrison  was  composed  of  detached  com- 
panies, one  from  each  regiment  in  the  division,  numbering 
about  400  men,  and  was  under  the  command  of  Lieutenant- 
Colonel  Byrd.  Nothing  was  saved  from  the  fort  but  two 
large  thirty-two  pound  Parrott  guns.  These  pieces  were 
removed  before  the  arrival  of  the  Federal  forces,  and  accom- 
panied our  division  on  our  retreat.  These  huge  guns,  trans- 
formed into  field  pieces,  and  each  drawn  by  a  dozen  oxen, 
presented  such  a  novel  appearance  that,  when  first  seen  by 
our  troops,  they  created  no  little  merriment.  They  were 
christened  by  the  name  of  the  "  Bull  Battery,"  by  some  of 
the  troops,  and  were  afterwards  thus  known  during  the  entire 
campaign. 

We  remained  encamped  at  Bayou  De  Lac  until  the  even- 
ing of  the  16th,  when  we  made  a  night-march  of  twenty 
miles  to  Lloyd's  bridge,  on  Bayou  Boeuf,  some  twenty -five 
miles  south  of  Alexandria.  For  several  days  after  the  cap- 
ture of  Fort  De  Bussy,  we  were  closely  pressed  by  the 
enemy's  cavalry.  Sometimes  they  dashed  upon  the  rear  of 
our  columns,  and,  as  our  command  consisted  of  infantry  alone, 
with  the  exception  of  one  company  of  cavalry,  commanded 
by  Captain  Faulkiner,  our  duties  were  necessarily  much 


175 

more  arduous  than  they  would  otherwise  have  been.  After 
our  arrival  in  camp  we  learned  that  the  enemy  had  taken 
possession  of  Alexandria. 

March  17th.  At  5  o'clock,  P.  M.,  we  fell  back  some  six 
miles  further,  to  the  piny  woods,  and  camped. 

March  18th.  General  Mouton's  division  formed  a  junction 
with  our  division  to-day.  It  consisted  of  one  brigade  of 
Texan  s,  commanded  by  the  French  General  Polignac ;  and 
one  brigade  of  Louisianians,  commanded  by  Colonel  Grey. 
Late  in  the  day,  we  were  joined  by  the  2d  Louisiana  Cav- 
alry, commanded  by  Colonel  Yincent.  We  marched  thirty- 
one  miles,  traveling  part  of  the  night.  While  we  were  rest- 
ing a  few  minutes  on  our  night-march,  we  were  thrown  into 
excitement  by  the  startling  call,  "  Who  goes  there?"  of  one 
of  our  advance  guard,  followed  by  the  heavy  report  of  a 
musket.  The  hands  of  every  man  were  instantly  upon  his 
gun,  and  every  preparation  was  made  to  resist  an  attack  from 
the  enemy's  cavalry ;  for,  in  the  hurry  and  alarm,  we  could 
think  of  nothing  else.  Presently  we  heard  a  heavy  tramp 
coming  down  the  road,  indicating  a  charge,  from  cavalry.  The 
troops  all  of  a  sudden  stampeded,  some  of  them  running 
down  the  bank  of  a  creek  alongside  of  the  road,  while  others 
jumped  a  fence  on  the  left  of  the  road.  To  add  to  the  excite- 
ment of  the  moment,  some  wag  yelled  out,  at  the  top 
of  his  voice,  "  Charge  against  cavalry ! "  Bayonets  were 
fixed,  and  triggers  were  cocked ;  but  we  soon  discovered  the 
cause  of  alarm,  in  beholding  two  Texas  beeves  that  had 
escaped  from  the  drivers,  and  which  were  followed  by  some 
of  them,  in  order  to  return  them  to  the  herd.  This  alarm 
having  been  satisfactorily  witnessed  by  the  troops,  we  again 
resumed  the  march,  and  arrived  at  camp,  near  Heuestone,  in 
the  piny  woods,  hungry  and  exhausted. 

On  the  19th  the  march  was  resumed.  We  marched  twenty 
miles,  and  camped  near  Carroll  Jones's,  a  wealthy  free  negro. 
At  this  point  we  were  thirty-five  miles  from  Alexandria,  and 
out  of  all  danger  of  being  cut  off  from  Shreveport.  Sending  all 
of  our  baggage  ahead  to  facilitate  our  movements,  we  had  no 


176  WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 

shelter  to  protect  us  from  the  elements,  making  the  damp 
chilly  ground  our  couch,  and  the  azure  sky  our  only  covering. 
Add  to  this  the  tortures  of  hunger  and  want  of  sufficient 
apparel,  which  all  endured  with  comparatively  little  murmuring 
or  complaining,  and  it  shows  a  spirit  which  nothing  could 
break  or  conquer. 

"  We  are  the  sons  of  sires  that  baffled 
Crowned  and  martyred  tyranny  ; 
They  defied  the  field  and  scaffold 
For  their  birthright — so  have  we." 

It  is  a  noted  fact  that,  previous  to  our  division  going  to 
battle,  or  anticipating  one,  the  troops  became,  as  it  were,  all  at 
once,  very  religious.  As  a  matter  of  course,  we  had  a  revival 
at  these  camps ;  preaching  was  a  nightly  occurrence.  The 
scene  at  one  of  these  gatherings  was  very  impressive.  A 
huge  shelter  protected  the  assembly  from  the  night-dews. 
Rough  seats,  made  of  logs,  covered  the  space  beneath  this 
shelter.  Stands,  on  which  were  built  fires  from  pine  knots, 
shed  a  lurid  light  over  the  vast  concourse.  The  hymns  sung 
would  rise  in  rich  cadences,  floating  away  on  the  evening 
breeze  in  solemn,  harmonious  strains,  followed  by  an  earnest 
prayer  and  an  impassioned  and  eloquent  discourse.  It  was 
a  strange  spectacle  to  witness — these  rough,  bronzed  soldiers, 
inured  to  danger  and  hardships,  making  bloodshed  the 
chief  aim  of  their  lives,  exposed  to  the  evil  influences  of  a 
soldier's  dissipated  and  reckless  existence,  thus  striving  to 
seek  a  "  home  not  made  with  hands,  eternal  in  the  heavens." 

March  20th.  We  learned  to  day,  that  Banks'  army  had 
formed  a  junction  with  Smith's  army  at  Alexandria,  thereby 
concentrating  no  less  than  48,000  men,  all  as  well  armed  and 
equipped  as  an  army  could  be,  with  an  abundance  of  ammu- 
nition and  supplies,  and  transportation  of  the  most  costly 
kind,  and  almost  unlimited  in  amount,  for  the  purpose  of 
crushing  out  or  swallowing  up  our  little  army.  It  was  the 
vain-glorious  boast  of  the  enemy  at  Alexandria,  that  before 
the  end  of  April,  all  the  "  rebel  troops  "  in  Louisiana  and 
Arkansas  would  be  driven  into  Texas. 


WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  177 

During  the  night  of  the  20th,  all  of  our  wagons  were  sent 
off  in  the  direction  of  Shreveport.  A  squad  of  Louisiana 
cavalry  brought  in  six  prisoners  that  they  had  captured  at 
McNutt's  Hill.  About  midnight  we  were  ordered  to  cook  one 
day's  rations,  and  to  be  ready  to  march  at  daylight.  When 
about  ready  to  proceed  on  our  journey  the  following  morning, 
the  order  of  last  night  was  countermanded.  During  the  day 
we  heard  heavy  firing  in  the  direction  of  McNutt's  Hill,  dis- 
tant from  our  camp  about  twelve  miles.  We  learned  after- 
wards that  the  2d  Louisiana  Cavalry  was  falling  back  before 
the  enemy.  Edgar's  Battery  of  Light  Artillery,  that  was 
attached  to  Scurry's  Brigade,  was  ordered  to  the  front. 

Notwithstanding  the  gloomy  weather,  a  violent  storm  of 
rain  and  sleet  having  fallen  while  we  were  encamped  here, 
everything  betokened  the  greatest  activity.  General  Dick 
Taylor  had  taken  the  field  in  person,  and  had  immediate  com- 
mand of  the  army.  The  foe,  encouraged  by  our  continued 
retrograde  movements,  was  becoming  bolder,  and  even  more 
daring  every  day. 

On  the  night  of  the  22d  an  event  occurred  that  cast  a  mo- 
mentary gloom  over  our  army.  The  splendid  cavalry  regi- 
ment commanded  by  Colonel  Vincent,  which  had  so  recently 
joined  us,  was  posted,  under  direction  of  General  Taylor,  as 
advance  pickets  on  the  Alexandria  road.  While  our  infantry 
was  enjoying  their  quiet  slumber,  after  laborious  and  tedious 
marches,  a  detachment  of  the  enemy's  cavalry,  commanded 
by  General  Mower,  made  a  circuitous  march  during  the  night, 
guided  by  some  Jayhawkers,  and  attacked  Colonel  Vincent's 
command  in  the  rear,  capturing  nearly  400  of  the  cavalry, 
besides  the  guns  and  men  of  Captain  Edgar's  Battery.  This 
sad  news  fell  like  a  thunderbolt  on  our  division,  as  each  bri- 
gade exhibited  considerable  jealousy  towards  the  others  con- 
cerning the  Nonpareil  Battery ;  all  three  of  the  brigades 
claiming  it  as  their  battery.  In  consequence  of  this  severe 
loss,  and  the  non-arrival  of  the  expected  troops  from  Texas 
and  Arkansas,  General  Dick  Taylor  declined  making  a  stand 
at  this  point  as  he  previously  had  contemplated.  On  the: 
12 


178  WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 

morning  of  the  23d,  our  infantry  pickets  reported  the  rapid 
advance  of  the  enemy.  We  formed  in  line  of  battle  near 
Carroll  Jones's  house,  awaiting  the  approach  of  the  enemy. 
Some  few  of  the  2d  Louisiana  Cavalry  made  their  escape  and 
arrived  in  camp.  They  reported  that  their  capture  was  owing 
to  the  mistake  of  placing  the  pickets  too  far  apart  from  each 
other,  thereby  allowing  one  of  the  Louisiana  Jayhawkers  an 
opportunity  of  creeping  up  to  the  line  of  pickets,  and  await- 
ing the  approach  of  one  of  the  couriers  from  the  front. 
Challenging  the  courier,  on  his  approach,  for  the  counter- 
sign, and  receiving  it  from  him,  he  retired,  and  commu- 
nicated it  to  the  enemy.  The  enemy,  on  receiving  the  coun- 
tersign, had  no  difficulty  in  surrounding  their  camp,  and 
capturing  them.  After  remaining  in  line  of  battle  for 
about  an  hour,  at  Carroll  Jones',  and  hearing  no  news 
from  the  enemy,  we  proceeded  on  our  way  towards 
Pleasant  Hill;  marched  twelve  miles,  and  camped  for  the 
night. 

March  24th.  Marched  thirty  miles,  and  camped  at  an  old 
camp-meeting  ground,  situated  in  the  midst  of  a  pinery.  Our 
commanders  must  have  believed  that  we  were  made  of 
cast-steel,  the  way  they  marched  us.  We  remained  at  this 
camp  for  the  purpose  of  practicing  skirmish- drill,  until  the 
morning  of  the  29th.  Whilst  at  this  camp  we  heard  the  glad 
tidings  that  General  Tom  Green,  with  his  cavalry,  numbering 
about  13,000  men,  had  crossed  the  Sabine  River,  en  route  to 
reinforce  us. 

On  the  29th,  a  pleasant  but  cloudy  morning,  the  army  was 
again  on  the  move.  Marched  seventeen  miles  over  a  rough 
and  hilly  road,  almost  devoid  of  water. 

March  30th.  Marched  thirteen  miles.  Caught  up  with  our 
wagon  train.  We  marched  in  rear  of  the  train,  and  arrived 
in  camp,  near  Fort  Jessup,  late  in  the  evening. 

March  31st.  Marched  twenty  miles.  Passed  by  Fort  Jes- 
sup, an  old  United  States  fort  before  the  annexation  of  Texas 
to  the  Union.  The  location  of  the  old  fort  is  one  of  exceed- 
ing loveliness — healthy,  and  combining  every  advantage  for  a 


WALKERS    TEXAS  DIVISION.  179 

flourishing  settlement.  There  is  a  growth  of  heavy  timber, 
some  two  miles  in  width,  adjacent  to  the  fort ;  while  the  rich 
bottom  lands  of  the  Sabine  River  afford  great  inducements  to 
the  industrious  husbandman.  Grain,  of  all  kinds,  grows  in 
abundance.  Cotton  and  sugar-cane  yield  well.  There  are  still 
standing  the  remains  of  the  fort,  barracks,  sutler's  store, 
General  Twiggs'  dwelling,  and  some  out-houses,  but  now 
crumbling  away  with  decay.  Eeported  that  the  enemy's  cav- 
alry was  within  seven  miles  of  us. 

On  the  morning  of  April  1st  we  marched  ten  miles,  and 
camped  near  the  town  of  Pleasant  Hill.  In  the  afternoon 
Green's  Cavalry  arrived  from  Texas.  They  met  the  enemy's 
cavalry  on  the  Natchitoches  Road.  In  accordance  with  Tom 
Green's  style  of  fighting,  he  went  right  for  them,  chastising 
them  wherever  they  made  a  stand.  The  whole  country,  far 
and  wide,  was  aroused  to  the  highest  pitch  of  excitement  by 
the  retreat  of  our  army.  The  inhabitants,  all  along  the  route 
of  our  retreat,  were  hurriedly  quitting  their  homes,  and  flying 
before  the  approach  of  the  invader.  Consternation  and 
alarm  everywhere  prevailed  among  the  citizens.  Old  men 
shouldered  their  muskets  and  came  to  our  assistance,  to  help 
drive  back  the  invader.  While  on  the  march,  we  heard  that 
the  enemy  had  taken  possession  of  Natchitoches  about  2 
o'clock,  P.  M. 

On  the  morning  of  the  2d  we  marched  five  miles,  in  the 
direction  of  Bayou  Pierre,  southeast  from  Pleasant  Hill. 
Heavy  cannonading  was  heard  by  us  in  the  direction  of 
Natchitoches.  About  6  o'clock  in  the  evening,  as  we  were 
preparing  to  cook  supper,  an  officer  of  General  Walker's 
staff  arrived  in  camp  to  notify  brigade  commanders  of  the 
rapid  advance  of  the  enemy.  He  informed  them  that 
it  now  became  a  race  between  their  men  and  those  of 
the  enemy,  who  should  get  to  Pleasant  Hill  first.  The 
division  was  formed  in  line  rapidly;  regimental  com- 
manders received  orders  to  double-quick  their  regiments  to 
Pleasant  Hill,  distant  about  five  miles.  On  we  sped,  like 
lightning — every  man  for  himself,  and  the  "devil  take  the 


180  WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 

hindmost."  To  add  to  the  excitement  of  the  moment,  cou- 
rier after  courier  came  gaUoping  on  their  fast  steeds,  inform- 
ing us  that  the  enemy  had  surrounded  our  wagon-train,  and 
that  there  was  a  possibility  of  our  losing  it,  unless  we  hurried 
up.  On  we  sped.  Night  overtook  us  in  the  race.  We  fell 
pell-mell  over  stumps  and  roots  of  trees,  arriving  at  Pleasant 
Hill  at  7  o'clock,  making  the  distance  of  five  miles  in  one  hour, 
carrying  our  knapsacks  and  accouterments.  On  our  arrival 
at  Pleasant  Hill,  we  formed  in  line  of  battle  under  the  crest 
of  the  hill,  and  remained  so  ah1  night,  expecting  every  minute 
the  approach  of  the  enemy.  Morning  at  last  dawned,  bright 
and  glorious,  but  no  enemy  was  in  sight,  much  to  the  disap- 
pointment of  the  troops.  They  seemed  to  be  perfectly  worn 
out  with  the  marching  and  counter-marching.  They  preferred 
meeting  the  enemy  in  a  fair  field,  small  as  their  number  was, 
rather  than  to  be  harassed  and  annoyed  by  them.  During 
the  night  the  commissary  department  opened  its  coffers  to 
the  troops,  allowing  them  to  help  themselves  to  provisions 
that  they  were  unable  to  get  transportation  for. 

April  3d.  Marched  ten  miles  in  the  direction  of  the  town 
of  Mansfield.  "We  camped  near  a  saw-mill,  about  half-way 
between  Mansfield  and  Pleasant  Hill. 

April  4th.  Marched  twelve  miles,  leaving  the  Mansfield 
road  to  the  left,  and  taking  the  Kingston  road.  On  our 
march  we  passed  twenty  wagons  loaded  with  flour,  bound  for 
Green's  Cavalry.  We  encamped  four  miles  from  Mansfield, 
in  a  swampy  bottom,  and  about  thirty-seven  miles  from 
Shreveport.  We  remained  at  this  camp  until  the  morning  of 
the  7th,  in  order  to  collect  as  much  available  force  as  possible, 
to  meet  the  impending  danger.  Yet  the  great  distance  of  the 
troops  in  Arkansas,  and  the  absence  of  facilities  for  transpor- 
tation, the  advance  of  the  Federal  General  Steele  through 
Arkansas  (he  had  already  crossed  the  Washita  River,  driving 
before  him  the  army  of  General  Price,  and  intending  to  form 
a  junction  about  the  middle  of  April  with  Banks'  army,  at 
Shreveport),  prevented  the  concentration  of  any  of  General 
Price's  army  at  the  battle  of  Mansfield. 


WALKEB'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  181 

In  the  meantime,  General  Taylor,  with  his  apparently  in- 
adequate force,  resolved  to  give  battle,  and  to  this  end  every 
preparation  was  made.  On  the  night  of  the  7th,  orders  were 
received  to  cook  one  day's  rations,  and  to  be  ready  to  leave 
at  four  o'clock  the  following  morning.  During  the  day,  the 
enemy's  advance  reached  Pleasant  Hill,  driving  Green's  Cav- 
alry before  them. 


182  WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 


CHAPTEE  XXIV. 

THE  BATTLE  OF  MANSFIELD. — OFFICIAL  KEPORT  OF  THE   BATTLK. 

"Ours  are  no  hirelings,  trained  to  the  fight, 
With  cymbal  and  clarion,  all  glittering  and  bright ; 
No  prancing  of  chargers,  no  martial  display ; 
No  war-trump  is  heard  from  our  silent  array. 
O'er  the  proud  heads  of  freemen,  the  lone  star  doth  wave — 
Men,  firm  as  the  mountain,  and  still  as  the  grave. 
To  day  we  shall  pour  out  our  life-blood  like  rain  ; 
We  come  back  in  triumph,  or  come  not  again." 
i 

the  morning  of  April  8th,  1864 — a  day  set  apart  by 
the  President  of  the  Confederate  States  for  fasting, 
humiliation,  and  prayer — "  Walker's  Division ''  moved 
from  their  camp,  situated  four  miles  north  of  the  town  of  Mans- 
field, to  meet  the  enemy,  who  were  advancing  in  heavy  force 
from  the  direction  of  Pleasant  Hill,  some  twenty-four  miles 
distant.  Arriving  near  the  town  of  Mansfield,  General  Walker 
formed  his  division  in  line  of  battle,  and  awaited  the  advance 
of  the  enemy. 

Orders  were  sent  to  General  Tom  Green,  in  command  of 
the  Texas  Cavalry,  to  fall  back  slowly,  so  as  to  decoy  the 
enemy  towards  our  line  of  battle,  where  a  well-planned  ambus- 
cade had  been  prepared  for  their  reception. 

In  order  that  the  situation  of  our  army  may  be  fully  com.' 
prehended,  I  give  the  following  explanation  :  The  road  from 
our  camp  to  Mansfield  was  over  a  remarkably  high  ridge, 
flanked  by  ravines,  where  it  would  be  impossible  for  one  army 
to  attack  another  without  suffering  terribly  from  an  ambus- 
cade or  masked  batteries.  The  ravines,  extending  close  to  the 
road,  were  covered  with  a  dense,  almost  impenetrable  growth  of 


WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  183 

» 

black-jacks  and  hazel  bushes.  Many  of  the  troops  went  to 
work  with  their  knives,  lopping  off  the  branches  of  the  trees 
and  bushes  which  obstructed  a  good  view  of  the  road,  in 
order  to  render  their  aim  and  fire  more  effective.  The  men 
waited  and  watched  for  the  foe,  with  compressed  lips  and 
blanched  faces,  betokening  the  inward  excitement,  while  every 
man  kept  his  allotted  place.  We  remained  in  this  position  until 
11  o'clock,  A.  M.,  when  General  Taylor  ordered  General 
"Walker  to  advance  his  division  to  meet  the  enemy,  who  were 
reported  about  half-way  between  Mansfield  and  Pleasant  Hill; 
and,  advancing  cautiously,  the  head  of  the  column  soon 
moved  off  in  the  direction  of  Mansfield,  the  bands  playing  the 
favorite  tune  of  "  Dixie."  The  inhabitants  of  Mansfield  ap- 
peared to  be  astonished  when  they  beheld  Walker's  Division 
marching  proudly  back  to  meet  the  enemy,  before  whom  they 
had  so  lately  retreated.  As  the  troops  marched  through  the 
town,  the  sidewalks  were  thronged  with  ladies — misses  and  ma- 
trons— who  threw  their  bright  garlands  at  the  feet  of  the  brave 
Texas  boys,  beseeching  them  in  God's  name  to  drive  back  the 
enemy,  and  save  their  cherished  homes  ;  assuring  us  that 
they  looked  to  us  for  protection.  On  hearing  these  patriotic 
words  we  felt  that  we  were  indeed  "  thrice  armed,"  and, 
although  greatly  outnumbered,  would  in  the  end  be  victorious. 
Alas  !  how  many  a  brave  heart,  which  thrilled  with  patriotic 
emotion  that  morning,  as  we  marched  with  flying  banners 
through  the  town,  was  stilled  in  death  before  the  last  gleams 
of  that  day's  sun  rested  upon  the  field  of  carnage  !  How  many 
strong  men,  as  they  listened  to  the  sweet  voices  of  those  maid- 
ens, and  thought  of  their  loved  ones  at  home,  ceased  to  think, 
or  speak,  or  breathe,  before  that  day  had  gone ! 

On  our  march  to  meet  the  enemy,  we  beheld  Generals  Tay- 
lor, Walker,  Mouton,  and  Green,  on  the  right  of  the  road,  ap- 
parently in  deep  consultation  about  the  forthcoming  battle. 
While  they  are  engaged  in  council,  I  will  sketch  them  in 
detail. 

Major-General  Dick  Taylor  is  of  middle  stature,  with  a  com- 
pact, well-knit  frame.  His  face  is  regular,  but  almost  bronze, 


184: 

• 

showing  unmistakable  evidences  of  his  Louisiana  lineage.  He 
has  a  glorious  pair  of  dark  eyes,  that  scintillate  beneath  his 
heavy  brows  and  dark  hair.  A  heavy,  curved  mustache  covers 
his  well-formed  mouth.  Such  is  his  appearance,  and  his  fighting 
qualities  are  in  accordance.  As  a  soldier,  he  has  been  won- 
derfully successful.  Though  some  of  his  movements  savored  of 
rashness,  when  calmly  weighed,  they  showed  the  good  judg- 
ment and  military  genius  that  conceived  them.  When  once  he 
forms  an  opinion,  he  acts  upon  it  with  an  unbending,  uncom- 
promising resolve. 

Major-General  John  G.  Walker  is  a  man  of  slight  frame, 
and  apparently  delicate  constitution  ;  of  a  grave,  pleasing  de- 
meanor, and  of  most  affable  and  courteous  manner.  He  is  kind 
and  courteous  to  all,  without  compromising  his  dignity.  He  was 
beloved  by  his  officers,  almost  adored  by  his  men.  As  a  gen- 
eral, Walker  is  calm  and  cautious ;  does  everything  by  rule  ; 
leaves  nothing  to  chance.  He  makes  his  arrangements  for 
battle  with  caution  and  foresight,  and  is  sure  to  have  every 
brigade  of  his  division  move  with  clock-work  regularity,  and 
strike  at  the  proper  time  and  place.  Nothing  disturbs  or  un- 
nerves him. 

Major-General  Mouton,  commanding  one  brigade  of  Texans 
and  one  of  Louisianians — forming  a  division — was  a  noble- 
looking  man,  of  fine,  dignified  appearance.  He  was  a  courteous, 
refined  gentleman,  and  a  brave  officer.  He  had  fully  the 
confidence  of  General  Dick  Taylor  as  a  general.  He  took  a 
distinguished  part  in  protecting  the  people  of  Louisiana,  bis 
native  State,  from  the  ruthless  invaders,  until  he  fell,  on  that 
fatal  day,  the  8th  of  April,  at  Mansfield,  in  about  the  forty- 
fifth  year  of  his  age. 

Major-General  Tom  Green  is  nearly  six  feet  high,  rather 
stoop-shouldered ;  his  face  is  rather  rounding,  with  a  short, 
grizzly  beard.  His  troops  had  unbounded  confidence  in  him, 
and  believed  whatever  he  did  was  right,  and  that  is  everything. 
If  sent  on  any  expedition,  no  matter  how  hazardous  or  ap- 
parently useless,  their  only  reply  was,  "  Well,  boys,  if  old 
Tom  said  so,  it's  all  right."  His  career  as  a  soldier  has  been 


WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  185 

% 

a  brilliant  record  of  dashing  exploits — of  noble  victories. 
General  Tom  Green  and  his  cavalry  have  been  through 
almost  every  battle-field  west  of  the  Mississippi  Eiver,  and, 
wherever  his  banner  floated,  down  went  the  enemy's. 
There  are  men  who  are  soldiers  by  inspiration.  Green  is  one. 
"West  Point  may  mould  officers,  and  instruct  them  in  the 
rudiments  of  war  ;  but  it  could  not  infuse  into  many  the  spirit 
and  military  genius  of  Tom  Green. 

After  marching  about  four  miles  from  Mansfield,  on  the 
Pleasant  Hill  road,  we  beheld  Mouton's  Division  formed  in  line 
of  battle  on  the  left  of  the  road.  Immediately  on  the  approach 
of  Walker's  Division,  several  batteries  of  light  artillery  took 
position  on  an  eminence  at  the  left  of  the  road,  and  about 
three  hundred  yards  in  advance  of  Mouton's  Division  ;  the  posi- 
tion that  the  artillery  occupied  would  enable  them  to  "  rake  " 
the  Pleasant  Hill  road  from  any  direction.  On  the  arrival  of 
Walker's  Division,  they  filed  off  to  the  right  of  the  road 
through  a  skirt  of  timber,  Waul's  Brigade  in  front.  A  more 
gallant  body  of  men,  more  spirited  and  resolved,  never  marched 
forth  to  battle.  Next  came  BandalTs  Brigade,  under  that 
heroic  and  indefatigable  officer.  They  marched  forward  at  a 
quick  step,  in  their  usual  rollicking  and  bold  style,  overflowing 
with  impatient  and  long-restrained  ardor  for  the  fight,  the 
promise  of  which  had  reconciled  them  to  their  long  and 
laborious  retreat  before  the  enemy.  Scurry's  Brigade  followed 
after  Eandall's  Brigade,  which  brought  up  the  rear  of  the 
division.  The  men  in  this  brigade  appeared  to  be  in  splendid 
condition.  They  were  full  of  fun,  led  by  their  gallant  chief, 
who  looked  every  inch  a  soldier.  A  regiment  of  this  brigade 
is  ordered  to  advance,  and  take  position  in  a  ravine,  some  six 
hundred  yards  in  advance  of  the  main  line,  in  order  to  ambus- 
cade the  enemy,  provided  they  advanced  before  the  general 
line  of  battle  was  formed.  The  balance  of  the  troops  of 
Walker's  Division,  after  marching  and  countermarching  and 
maneuvering,  was  formed  in  line  of  battle  about  2  o'clock, 
P.  M.,  behind  a  rail-fence,  inclosing  Moss's  plantation ;  the 
left  of  the  division  rested  on  the  line  of  the  Pleasant  Hill  road, 


186  WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 

Scurry's  Brigade  on  the  right,  Waul's  in  the  center,  and  Ban- 
dall's  on  the  left. 

The  intervening  space  between  "Walker's  and  Mouton's 
Divisions  was  filled  with  several  batteries  of  artillery,  some  of 
which  were  in  position,  as  already  mentioned.  The  cavalry, 
except  that  portion  then  skirmishing  with  the  enemy,  had  been 
dismounted,  and  occupied  the  left  of  the  line,  with  the  excep- 
tion of  one  regiment,  who  took  their  position  on  the  right. 
After  the  line  of  battle  was  formed,  the  command  was  given 
to  "stack  arms."  The  fence  in  our  front  was  pulled  down. 
We  remained  inactive  for  about  an  hour,  awaiting  the  ap- 
proach of  the  enemy,  who  were  reported  to  be  in  line  of  bat- 
tle, about  one  mile  in  our  front.  The  firing  of  our  cavalry 
skirmishers  became  each  minute  more  distinct.  Presently,  the 
regiment  of  Scurry's  Brigade  that  had  taken  position  in  ad" 
vance  is  seen  double-quicking  across  the  field,  making  towards 
their  brigade.  Guns  are  elevated  in  order  to  cover  their  retreat. 
All  eyes  are  eagerly  watching  their  approach,  as  they  advanced 
to  take  their  position  in  their  brigade. 

This  calm  before  the  storm — the  period  immediately  preced- 
ing the  conflict,  when  it  is  apparent  that  the  deadly  conflict  is 
near  at  hand — is  more  trying  even  than  the  battle  itself.  Unsus- 
tained  by  the  reckless  excitement  and  wild  furor  of  the  actual 
strife,  the  strongest  mind  must  shudder  at  the  fearful  thought 
that  a  few  short  moments  more  may  usher  the  soul  into  eternity. 

On  the  right  of  the  division,  and  about  fifty  yards  in  ad- 
vance, was  our  favorite  leader,  General  Walker,  surrounded 
by  his  staff  officers,  eating  their  lunch  before  they  enter  the 
conflict.  Casting  your  eyes  to  the  left  of  the  division,  you  can 
behold  General  Dick  Taylor,  mounted  on  his  black  steed,  fol- 
lowed by  a  lonely  courier,  advancing  towards  General  Walker. 
On  his  arrival,  the  two  generals  converse  together  some 
twenty  minutes.  General  Taylor  then  returns,  going  a  little 
quicker  than  he  advanced.,  This  was  owing,  I  suppose,  to  his 
hearing  heavy  firing  on  the  left  of  the  line,  which  plainly  indi- 
cated that  the  work  of  destruction  had  commenced.  Infantry 
skirmishers  were  at  once  pushed  forward  to  feel  the  position 


WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  187 

of  the  enemy.  News  flashed  along  the  line  that  the  division 
of  General  Mouton  had  attacked  a  superior  force  of  the 
enemy,  in  a  strong  position.  For  half  an  hour  the  echo  of 
their  guns  swelled  upon  the  evening  breeze,  and,  during  that 
period,  an  awful  feeling  of  intense  anxiety  and  suspense  filled 
the  minds  of  the  troops  not  engaged  in  the  conflict.  The 
conflict  ceases.  Alas  !  we  hear  the  melancholy  tidings  that 
the  brave  General  Mouton  was  killed  just  as  he  had  borne  the 
banner  of  the  "  stars  and  bars  "  to  victory. 

When  the  gallant  Louisianians  learned  the  certainty  of  their 
idolized  chieftain's  death,  many  of  these  lion-hearted  men 
threw  themselves  in  wild  grief  on  the  ground,  weeping  scald- 
ing tears  in  their  bitter  sorrow.  It  is  a  fearful  spectacle  to 
see  strong-hearted  men  thus  give  way  to  their  feelings.  It 
demonstrated  the  devotion  felt  for  their  gallant  chieftain, 
and  showed  how  deeply  he  was  enshrined  in  these  brave  souls. 

Shortly  after  the  report  of  General  Mouton's  death,  the 
cavalry  mount,  and  move  off  to  the  right,  in  full  gaUop. 
Presently,  General  Walker  and  staff  are  in  their  saddles.  He 
orders  his  brigade  commanders  to  prepare  for  action.  All 
being  in  readiness,  he  gives  the  command  :  "  By  the  right  of 
companies  to  the  front,  forward  march  !  "  Every  man  moved 
off  quickly,  with  a  confident  and  determined  step.  The  line  of 
march  was  through  a  large  field  in  our  front,  then  through  a 
skirt  of  timber,  and  into  another  field.  Picture  a  nearly  tri- 
angular space,  broken  by  woods,  fences,  and  fields, — its  base 
a  long  ridge  of  underbrush  running  from  southeast  to  north- 
west, its  lower  side  traced  by  a  line  extending  westerly  to  a 
line  of  woods  that  forms  the  left  right-angle  as  you  approach 
the  area  by  a  road,  the  Mansfield  and  Pleasant  Hill  highway, 
which  intersects  that  area.  As  we  approached  a  narrow  skirt 
of  timber,  and  about  six  hundred  yards  from  the  enemy's 
position,  we  beheld  General  Walker,  mounted  on  his  iron- 
gray  horse,  with  his  field-glass  to  his  eye,  taking  observations 
of  the  enemy's  position.  His  actions  and  features  were  a 
study  for  the  closest  scrutinizer  of  physiognomy.  Not  a  quiver 
on  his  face — not  the  movement  of  a  muscle,  to  betray  anxiety 


188  WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 

or  emotion,  notwithstanding  the  shower  of  balls  whizzing 
around  him. 

Besting  a  few  minutes  in  the  skirt  of  timber,  the  command 
was  given,  "  By  companies,  into  line  !  "  After  the  line  was 
formed,  orders  were  given  to  "  fix  bayonets."  In  the  mean 
time,  the  enemy  continued  firing  upon  us  from  their  batteries. 
Soon  the  command  was  given  to  "  double-quick."  We  im- 
mediately commenced  advancing  in  the  direction  of  the 
enemy,  who  were  securely  posted  behind  a  rail-fence.  They 
greeted  our  coming  with  a  perfect  shower  of  leaden  hail. 
The  men  shouted,  at  the  top  of  their  voices,  at  each  iron 
messenger  as  it  approached,  many  indulging  in  jokes  and 
witticisms,  such  as,  "  This  kind  of  ball-music  is  fine  for 
dancing."  "  Here  comes  another  iron  pill !  "  "  Dodge,  boys, 
but  don't  tremble!" 

The  fire  of  the  enemy  increases ;  it  is  terrible.  He  is 
gathering  all  his  strength  for  one  final  struggle.  Shells,  canis- 
ter, and  bullets  are  falling  around  like  a  hail-storm.  Our 
different  brigade  commanders  ride  along  their  lines,  encour- 
aging [their  men ;  still  there  is  no  faltering,  but  wild  cheers, 
and  on  they  press.  When  our  army  had  arrived  within  about 
fifty  paces,  and  before  we  had  fired  a  shot,  a  general  flash 
was  seen  along  the  enemy's  line,  and  a  storm  of  bullets  went 
flying  over  our  heads.  They  had  aimed  too  high.  Onward 
our  troops  advance,  pale  with  excitement,  compressed  lips  and 
blazing  eyes  betokening  the  spirit  of  their  determination. 
Casting  your  eyes  along  the  column,  you  behold  the  flags  of  the 
various  regiments  floating  on  the  breeze,  and  each  regiment 
trying  to  be  the  first  to  scale  the  fence.  Nearer  our  troops 
advance  ;  the  color-sergeants  flaunt  their  flags  at  the  enemy, 
and  fall;  others  grasp  them  and  fall,  and  they  are  then 
borne  by  the  corporals.  In  this  fearful  charge,  there  was  no 
flinching  nor  murmuring — nothing  but  the  subdued  talk  of 
soldiers,  the  gritting  of  teeth  for  revenge,  as  they  saw  their 
comrades  falling  around  them.  At  last  the  fence  is  gained  ; 
over  it  our  troops  go,  like  an  avalanche  of  fire !  A  loud  and 
prolonged  Texas  yell  deafens  the  ear ;  their  cheers  rise  in  one 


WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  189 

great  range  of  sound  over  the  noise  of  battle,  and  are  heard 
far  down  the  lines  to  the  left,  where  the  Louisiana  boys  are 
at  it. 

Nothing  could  withstand  the  impetuosity  of  our  charge. 
After  crossing  the  fence,  we  came  abruptly  upon  the  enemy's 
guns.  With  loud  huzzas  we  rushed  upon  the  enemy  before  they 
could  reload.  A  murderous  discharge  of  rifle-balls  was  poured 
into  their  very  bosoms ;  afterwards,  using  our  bayonets,  we 
mercifully  bayoneted  them,  ere  they  could  recover  from  their 
astonishment.  Their  prostrate  column  was  trampled  in  the 
mire.  Ah !  now  comes  the  tug  of  war.  The  enemy  is  panic- 
stricken  ;  they  abandon  their  artillery ;  they  cannot  stand 
the  bayonet  charge ;  they  retreat,  and  from  their  appearance, 
"  every  man  is  for  himself."  They  sadly  feel  the  loss  of  their 
artillery.  Cheer  after  cheer  bursts  forth  from  our  lines,  as  the 
enemy  is  seen  fleeing,  casting  away  their  knapsacks  and  arms. 
Our  cavalry  now  charges  down  on  their  flanks,  making  the 
very  ground  quake  and  the  enemy  tremble.  Urged  on  by  the 
excitement  of  victory,  we  pursue  the  flying  foe,  killing  where 
they  dare  resist,  and  capturing  them  by  hundreds.  At  last, 
their  wagon-train,  numbering  over  two  hundred  wagons, 
falls  into  our  possession.  Cheer  after  cheer  again  is  loudly 
given  by  our  troops,  as  they  behold  quartermaster  stores  of 
every  description.  The  enemy,  seeing  the  loss  of  their  wagon- 
train,  endeavored  to  rally  their  men  for  the  retaking  of  the 
same ;  but,  as  often  as  they  were  formed,  they  were  compelled 
to  retire.  The  flight  had  become  universal.  The  enemy  had 
left  on  the  ground,  dying  and  dead,  where  the  battle  began, 
about  one  half  of  their  forces  ;  and,  through  the  woods  and 
along  the  road,  our  cavalry  and  artillery  completely  slaugh- 
tered them.  Horses  and  men,  by  hundreds,  rolled  down  to- 
gether ;  the  road  was  red  with  their  blood.  After  pursuing 
them  four  miles,  they  finally  made  a  stand  at  a  peach  and 
plum  orchard,  where  they  were  reinforced  by  the  19th  Army 
Corps.  Entirely  unconscious  of  the  arrival  of  fresh  troops 
to  their  assistance,  we  passed  half-way  through  the  field 
before  we  became  aware  of  their  reinforcements.  Then  came 


190  WALKEE'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 

the  terrible  shock.  Volley  after  volley,  and  shower  after  shower 
of  bullets  came  whizzing  down  upon  us.  It  was  utterly  im- 
possible to  advance,  and  to  retreat  beneath  the  range  of  then- 
long  guns  seemed  equally  desperate.  We  lay  down,  arose 
again,  and  then  involuntarily  sought  such  shelter  and  protec- 
tion as  the  ground  afforded. 

Encouraged  by  our  brave  leaders,  our  brave  men  attempted 
again  and  again  to  charge  the  enemy,  who  were  behind  their 
barricades  of  logs  and  fences,  which  they  hastily  constructed 
to  cover  their  retreat ;  but  human  fortitude  and  human  brav- 
ery were  unequal  to  the  task.  The  very  air  seemed  dark  and 
hot  with  balls  ;  the  thunders  of  the  artillery-guns  resounded 
through  the  heavens  and  seemed  to  shake  the  earth  to  its  very 
center,  and  on  every  side  was  heard  their  crushing  sound  as 
they  struck  that  swaying  mass,  tearing  through  flesh,  bone, 
and  sinew.  The  position  of  our  line  could  have  been  traced  by 
our  fallen  dead.  Within  a  few  short  moments  many  a  gallant 
spirit  went  to  its  long  home. 

The  sun  was  now  declining.  General  Walker,  with  his 
generals,  was  busily  engaged  in  encouraging  their  troops, 
while  sharing  with  them  every  peril.  After  General  Walker 
had  carefully  reconnoitered  the  lines  of  the  enemy,  he  ordered 
his  brigade  commanders  to  form  their  brigades  for  the  final 
and  successful  charge.  Some  time  elapsed  before  the  troops 
were  ready  for  the  successful  charge.  Hark!  there  peals 
forth  the  signal-gun.  A  wild  shout  of  enthusiasm  burst  forth 
from  the  Texas  ranks  as  they  rushed  in  full  career  upon  the 
enemy's  lines.  The  sun  went  down,  and  the  struggle  still 
continued.  Twilight  darkness  is  over  the  battle-field,  but  a 
blaze  of  intense  light  from  our  bayonets  gleamed  over  the 
contending  hosts.  One  by  one  the  stars  came  out  calmly 
in  the  sky,  and  the  moon,  in  silent  beauty,  rose  serenely  in  the 
east,  and  looked  down  with  her  mild  reproof  upon  the  hideous 
carnage  ;  and  still  the  struggling  squadrons,  with  unintermitted 
fury  dashed  against  each  other.  Beneath  such  blows  men 
and  horses  rapidly  fell.  The  clangor  of  the  strife  grew  fainter 
and  fainter.  Still,  in  the  gloom  of  the  night,  as  the  eye  gazed 


WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  191 

upon  the  tumultuous  mass  swaying  to  and  fro,  it  was  impos- 
sible to  judge  who  were  gaining  the  victory. 

The  spectacle  was  so  sublime,  so  awful,  so  sure  to  be  fol- 
lowed by  decisive  results,  that  each  army,  as  by  common  con- 
sent, suspended  its  fire  to  await  the  issue  of  this  extraor- 
dinary duel.  The  roar  of  musketry  and  the  heavy  booming 
of  artillery  ceased.  The  soldiers  rested  upon  their  muskets, 
and  the  exhausted  cannoniers  leaned  upon  their  guns,  await- 
ing daylight  to  come  to  renew  the  battle. 

Too  much  praise  cannot  be  bestowed  upon  the  doctors  and 
chaplains  of  the  division,  for  the  care  and  kindness  with  which 
they  looked  after  the  dying  and  wounded.  They  spent  the 
night  with  their  lamps  going  over  the  battle-field,  serving  the 
dying,  and  attending  those  who  might  recover.  Oh,  what  a 
boon  is  even  a  drink  of  cold  water  to  a  maimed  soldier  lying 
on  the  field  of  battle,  tortured  with  pain  and  thirst ! 

The  morning  of  the  9th  had  scarcely  tinged  the  eastern 
horizon  with  the  grayish  dawn,  when  we  discovered  no  enemy 
in  sight,  much  to  our  surprise.  The  reason  for  the  withdrawal 
of  the  enemy  from  the  battle-field  during  the  night,  has  been 
furnished  me  by  an  officer  of  the  16th  Dismounted  Cavalry. 
This  officer  was  seriously  wounded  late  in  the  evening,  and 
fell  into  the  enemy's  hands.  He  was  carried  to  a  log  cabin, 
in  the  rear  of  their  lines,  which  was  used  as  their  hospital. 
In  this  cabin  or  hospital  a  council  of  war  was  held  by  the 
Federal  generals.  The  attention  of  General  Banks,  the  com- 
mander of  the  Federal  forces,  was  attracted  by  the  heavy 
moaning  of  the  rebel  officer.  After  questioning  him  about 
the  nature  of  his  wounds,  he  asked  the  officer  the  number  of 
the  Confederate  forces  engaged  in  to-day's  battle.  The  officer 
replied  that  he  was  not  aware  of  the  strength  of  our  forces ; 
but  he  knew  the  main  body  of  our  forces  were  still  behind, 
and  that  only  the  advance  of  our  army  were  engaged  in  to- 
day's battle — but,  on  to-morrow,  our  entire  army  would  be  en- 
gaged. General  Banks,  believing  the  supposed  dying  officer's 
words,  immediately  ordered  a  retreat  of  his  army  to  Pleasant 
Hill.  Thus  closed  the  memorable  battle  of  Mansfield. 


192  WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 

It  is  impossible  for  me  to  make  individual  mention  of  all 
those  who  on  that  day  sacrificed  their  lives  upon  the  altar  of 
our  country,  but  many  a  once  happy  home  now  mourns  the 
loss  of  some  brave  soldier  who  on  that  night  slept  in  death 
upon  the  sanguinary  battle-field  of  Mansfield. 

Our  loss  in  the  divisions  amounted  to  600  in  killed, 
wounded,  and  missing.  While  the  loss  of  the  enemy  amount- 
ed to  1,500  in  killed  and  wounded,  2,000  prisoners,  20  pieces 
of  artillery,  including  Nims's  battery,  the  veteran  battery  of 
seventeen  engagements,  Chicago  Mercantile  battery,  and  the 
First  Indiana  battery,  besides  two  hundred  wagons  and 
thousands  of  small-arms. 


OFFICIAL  REPORT  OF  THE  BATTLE. 

GENERAL  BOGGS,  Assistant  Adjutant-  General. 

GENERAL, — I  have  the  honor  to  report  to  you  that  a  battle 
occurred  yesterday  afternoon  a  little  below  Mansfield.  The 
fighting  continued  until  night,  the  enemy  having  been  at 
times  reinforced  by  the  19th  Army  Corps.  We  fought  the 
13th  Army  Corps  all  day,  and  late  in  the  evening  met  the  19th 
Army  Corps,  and  drove  them  back.  We  have  captured  about 
2,000  prisoners,  20  pieces  of  artillery,  200  wagons,  and  thou- 
sands of  small-arms.  Our  loss  in  officers  has  been  severe, 
and  we  have  many  wounded. 

(Signed,)         E.  TAYLOR,  General  Commanding. 


WALKEB'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  193 


CHAPTEB  XXY. 

THE  BATTLE  OF  PLEASANT  HILL. 

"  Bide  your  time,  the  morn  is  breaking, 

Bright  with  freedom's  blessed  ray  ; 
Thousands  from  their  trance  awaking, 

Soon  shall  stand  in  martial  array. 
Man  shall  fetter  man  no  longer, 

Liberty  shall  march  sublime  ; 
Every  moment  makes  us  stronger, 

Firm,  unshrinking,  Texans,  bide  your  time  /  w 

T  daylight  on  the  morning  of  the  9th  of  April  we 
were  reinforced  by  General  Churchill's  Division 
of  Arkansians,  and  Parson's  Division  of  Missou- 
rians.  Shortly  after  their  arrival,  we  took  up  the  line  of 
march  in  pursuit  of  the  enemy,  who  was  reported  to  be  in  the 
neighborhood  of  Pleasant  Hill,  some  twelve  miles  distant. 
The  road  that  the  enemy  retreated  over  was  literally  strewn 
with  knapsacks,  cooking  utensils,  etc.,  etc.  They  obstructed 
the  road  by  felling  trees,  to  retard  our  pursuit  as  far  as  possi- 
ble. On  our  arrival  within  about  six  miles  of  Pleasant  Hill, 
we  met  a  squad  of  Green's  cavalry,  escorting  some  three  or 
four  hundred  "  Zouave  "  prisoners,  dressed  in  their  peculiar 
style  of  uniform,  en  route  for  Mansfield.  Some  of  the  soldiers 
noticing  their  eccentric  uniform,  remarked  that  the  war  must 
soon  be  over,  supposing  that  the  "  rebels  *  had  whipped  all 
the  men  in  the  Northern  States,  and  Lincoln  was  filling  up 
his  ranks  with  women.  The  Zouave  prisoners  were  rather 
amused  when  they  were  informed  by  some  of  the  Texans  that 
the  Texas  troops  had  too  much  honor  to  fight  women  (allud- 
ing to  the  Zouave  dress).  On  their  arrival  at  Mansfield  they 
12 


WALKEK'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 


would  all  be  paroled,  on  account  of  the  Confederacy  having 
scarcely  provisions  to  feed  their  own  troops,  without  providing 
for  women  prisoners.  After  the  Zouave  prisoners  passed  us 
by,  we  continued  our  march  towards  Pleasant  Hill.  On  our 
arrival  near  the  town,  we  learned,  much  to  our  surprise,  that 
the  enemy,  having  been  reinforced  by  General  A.  J.  Smith's 
Army  Corps,  were  in  line  of  battle  at  Pleasant  Hill,  awaiting 
our  approach.  Our  Division  was  shortly  afterward  formed 
in  line  of  battle,  as  on  the  day  before.  After  moving  through 
an  old  field  covered  with  underbrush,  we  came  into  another 
field.  On  the  opposite  side  of  the  field  was  posted  the  enemy 
to  our  left  and  front,  and  in  the  immediate  vicinity  of  the 
town  of  Pleasant  Hill.  We  discovered  that  the  enemy  had 
burned  several  houses  in  the  town,  in  order  to  be  able  to 
work  thfeir  artillery  to  advantage. 

Pleasant  Hill  is  a  small  village  of  about  two  hundred  inhab- 
itants, situatecj  on  a  slight  eminence  thirty-five  miles  from 
Grand-Ecore  :  the  town  boasts  of  a  hotel,  three  storehouses, 
and  an  Academy.  During  the  night,  General  Kirby  Smith, 
accompanied  by  Governor  Allen,  had  arrived  from  Shreve- 
port.  General  Kirby  Smith  having  taken  command  in  person, 
formed  his  general  line  of  battle  in  the  following  order. 
General  Green's  Division  of  cavalry  took  position  on  the 
extreme  left  ;  Mouton's  Division  of  infantry,  commanded 
by  Polignac,  on  the  right  of  the  cavalry  ;  Walker's  Division 
next,  and  Churchill's  and  Parson's  Divisions  on  the  extreme 
right.  The  Louisiana  militia,  under  command  of  Governor 
Allen,  was  held  in  reserve,  in  case  of  an  emergency.  In 
justice  to  the  Louisiana  militia,  I  will  state,  that  notwith- 
standing they  were  past  the  years  of  enduring  the  toils  and 
hardships  of  a  soldier's  life,  no  braver  or  nobler  body  of  men 
ever  went  into  action  ;  wherever  their  patriotic  Governor  led, 
they  followed. 

After  the  line  of  battle  was  formed,  skirmishers  were  thrown 
forward  to  feel  the  position  of  the  enemy.  They  had  to  advance 
in  open  and  exposed  order,  while  the  enemy's  skirmishers 
availed  themselves  of  the  trees,  and  every  convenient  cover. 


WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  195 

The  enemy  kept  up  a  constant  galling  fire  upon  our  troops 
for  about  half  an  hour.  Presently  General  Smith  pushed 
forward  his  entire  line,  driving  the  cloud  of  skirmishers  of  the 
enemy  before  them.  After  advancing  a  short  distance,  we  be- 
held the  enemy  drawn  up  in  line  of  battle,  in  excellent  order, 
with  batteries  strongly  posted  and  in  great  force. 

About  four  o'clock,  P.  M.,  the  battle  opened  furiously  by 
an  attack  on  the  enemy's  left,  by  the  Arkansas  and  Missouri 
troops.  They  passed  down  the  hill  obliquely  to  the  right  to 
support  a  battery,  which  was  about  to  be  placed  within  a 
few  hundred  yards,  of  the  artillery  of  the  foe.  Though  silent 
as  they  passed  down  the  hill,  a  shout  arose  a  few  seconds 
after,  which,  from  the  direction  they  had  taken,  every  listener 
could  distinguish  as  theirs.  The  incessant  roar  of  artillery 
came  from  the  batteries  at  close  range.  Shells  and  round- 
shots,  ploughed  through  their  ranks,  and  shattered  the  trees. 
Thick  volumes  of  smoke  arose  from  the  woods,  and  floated 
along  the  vaUey.  Still  the  Arkansas  and  Missouri  troops 
advanced,  reserving  their  fire  until  they  got  into  close  quar- 
ters with  the  enemy.  The  latter  came  resolutely  to  meet 
them,  like  a  sweeping  avalanche.  Our  troops  greet  them  by 
firing  a  volley  along  the  entire  line,  mowing  them  down  by 
hundreds.  All  the  effort  on  the  part  of  our  troops  to  check 
or  turn  this  human  avalanche,  proved  unavailing,  and  for  the 
first  time  our  brave  and  determined  men  staggered  and  gave 
ground,  and  commenced  to  fall  back.  Our  officers  in  vain  tried 
to  detain  them,  but  our  troops  suddenly  fall  back,  grouping 
around  their  officers.  Our  situation  soon  became  most  criti- 
cal, and  a  few  moments  longer  might  have  been  disastrous ; 
but  General  "Walker  seeing  those  two  divisions  falling  back  in 
disorder,  immediately  ordered  General  Scurry's  brigade  to 
reinforce  them.  The  brigade  stripped  themselves  of  their 
blankets  and  knapsacks,  in  order  that  nothing  might  impede 
their  work,  and  then  swept  down  the  hill,  across  the  field, 
and  on  towards  the  enemy,  delivering  fire  after  fire  on  the 
enemy's  forces.  Batteries  open  on  them  right  and  left,  hail- 
ing grape  and  canister  into  their  very  faces,  while  from  the  ' 


196  WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 

woods,  a  stream  of  lead  was  poured  afore  them.  As  their 
line  swept  along,  the  heroic  General  Scurry  galloped  towards 
the  head  of  his  column,  hallooing,  "Come  on,  boys,  you 
have  got  your  chance  at  last."  The  order  was  quickly 
responded  to,  and  with  a  desperate  onset  the  whole  line 
rushed  forward  upon  the  enemy.  It  was  a  fine  sight,  that 
charge  of  Scurry's  Brigade  to  the  death-struggle.  General 
Scurry  expected  to  be  assisted  by  the  troops  he  went  to  re- 
inforce, but  the  panic-striken  troops  were  too  slow  in  rallying 
to  do  any  good.  Those  gallant  fellows  followed  quickly  their 
general,  and  soon  cleared  the  way.  The  enemy  poured  into 
them  a  cruel,  crushing  fire  ;  but  in  vain,  their  onset  could  not 
be  checked.  But  the  field  was  not  cleared  ;  the  enemy  seeing 
the  comparatively  small  body  of  their  assailants,  fell  upon 
our  gallant  troops  in  massed  columns,  driving  back  our  for- 
ces. General  Walker  perceiving  the  critical  position  of  Scur- 
ry's brigade,  almost  surrounded  by  four  times  their  number, 
immediately  ordered  the  brigades  of  Waul  and  Eandall  to 
charge  the  enemy  at  the  point  of  the  bayonet,  as  the  only 
possible  means  of  saving  Scurry's  brigade  from  destruction. 
In  the  very  thickest  of  the  fight  rode  the  gallant  warrior 
General  Scurry,  urging  his  men  forward,  exclaiming  aloud,  in 
his  stentorian  voice,  "  Scurry's  brigade  may  be  annihilated, 
bnt  must  never  retreat."  -Hat  in  hand,  cheering  on  his  men,  a 
rifle  ball  glances  his  cheek,  slightly  wounding  him  ;  but 
without  paying  any  attention  to  his  wound,  he  continued 
cheering  on  his  men.  All  of  his  brave  troops  seemed  inspired 
with  the  same  courage.  Ah,  yonder  advances  the  gallant 
brigades  of  Waul  and  Eandall,  led  by  their  gallant  chiefs, 
coming  to  their  relief.  "  Thank  God,"  exclaims  the  heroic 
Scurry,  "  my  brigade  is  saved."  The  dashing  charge  of  Waul's 
and  Eandall's  brigades  compelled  the  enemy  to  withdraw  their 
forces  from  their  left,  and  concentrate  them  in  their  center  to 
meet  the  charge.  Eight  gallantly  our  troops  charge  across 
the  open  field  in  their  front,  as  steadily  and  as  coolly  as  if  on 
parade.  On  their  arrival  within  about  one  hundred  yards  of 
'  the  enemy,  they  are  ordered  to  lie  down.  The  keen  eyes  of 


WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  197 

their  commander  saw  the  enemy  in  the  act  of  firing,  and  he 
pursued  this  course  in  order  to  save  the  men  from  the 
enemy's  first  fire. 

General  Walker  seeing  this  unexpected  movement  of  his 
troops,  galloped  towards  his  men,  to  cheer  them  on :  a  nobly 
appearing  chief,  and  full  of  vigor  and  life,  as  he  dashed  along 
the  line  inspiring  his  brave  men  with  enthusiasm.  Wherever  he 
rode,  cheer  after  cheer  greeted  him,  for  there  is  an  irresisti- 
ble spell  around  this  officer,  who  has  exhibited  the  real 
Napoleonic  energy.  He  well  knew  that  if  his  line  faltered 
the  least,  and  was  not  successful  in  driving  the  enemy  from 
their  position,  Scurry's  brigade  would  be  sacrificed.  While  in 
the  act  of  waving  his  hat,  in  cheering  his  men  onward,  he 
was  pierced  by  a  minie-ball,  but  paying  no  attention  to  his 
wound,  he  issued  his  orders  to  his  brigade  commanders  amid 
a  continual  shower  of  shot  and  minie-balls.  It  was  not 
until  his  chief  of  staff,  Major  McClay,  saw  him  in  the  act  of 
fainting  from  his  severe,  but  not  dangerous  wound,  that  he 
was  persuaded  to  dismount.  Even  after  he  was  placed  on  a 
litter,  he  would  not  allow  himself  to  be  removed  from  the 
battle-field  until  he  heard  that  Scurry's  brigade  was  out  of  all 
danger.  Never  were  troops  better  handled,  and  orders  more 
quickly  executed  than  by  the  troops  of  Waul's  and  Kandall's  bri- 
gades. They  had  already  driven  the  enemy  from  the  top  of  the 
hill.  The  piles  of  the  enemy's  dead  attest  the  correctness  of 
our  aim,  and  the  obstinacy  of  the  conflict ;  most  gallantly  did 
those  two  brigades  sustain  their  well-earned  reputation, 
stimulated  and  encouraged  by  the  conduct  of  their  officers, 
and  wakened  to  a  perfect  enthusiasm  by  the  presence  of  their 
brigade  commanders,  Generals  Waul  and  Kandall,  who,  utterly 
regardless  of  all  danger,  rushed  into  the  thickest  of  the  fight, 
rallying  their  troops,  where  they  showed  any  signs  of  waver- 
ing, disposing  their  forces  so  as  to  protect  their  weakest 
point.  Our  division  artillery  kept  up  a  continual  fire  on  the 
enemy's  line,  making  sad  havoc  among  them.  The  enemy 
form  their  second  line  of  battle  in  a  skirt  of  timber,  about 
half  a  mile  from  their  original  line,  for  the  purpose  of  mak- 


198  WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 

ing  another  effort  to  regain  the  hill  they  were  driven  from  ; 
Mouton's  Division,  'now  commanded  by  the  gallant  and 
chivalric  French  General  Polignac,  among  the  first  to 
abandon  the  ease  and  comfort  of  a  luxurious  home  to  engage 
in  the  perilous  conflict  for  Southern  independence,  is  ordered 
to  reinforce  "Walker's  Division.  Standing  erect  in  his  saddle, 
he  hallooed  aloud  :  "  My  boys,  follow  your  Polignac."  This 
fine  division  of  Texans  and  Louisianians  need  no  appeal  or  in- 
centive. It  overflows  with  ardor  and  impatience  for  the  conflict. 
The  Louisianians,  burning  to  avenge  the  wrongs  and  insults 
of  their  beloved  State,  shouted  as  they  advanced,  "  Mouton  !" 
as  their  battle-cry ;  while  the  brigade  of  gallant  Texans  with 
the  cool  and  intrepid  veteran  Harrison  to  lead  them,  as  he 
led  his  regiment  to  victory  at  the  battle  of  Borbeaux,  rer 
sponded  with  a  shout. 

The  last  division  was  Green's  cavalry,  forming  close  on 
Polignac's,  and  ready  to  leap  into  the  first  opening  where 
fighting  was  to  be  done.  The  fight  now  became  general.  Each 
line  moved  forward,  encountering  every  few  hundred  yards  or 
so  a  battery  strongly  supported  by  the  enemy's  infantry,  with 
the  same  unvarying  result.  Often  our  men  recoiled  and  fal- 
tered under  the  iron  tempest  from  these  terrible  batteries,  but 
our  indomitable  chiefs  would  re-collect  and  re-form  their  men 
and  return  to  the  charge.  The  enemy  maintained  his  position 
with  unusual  firmness ;  three  several  times  did  our  brave  boys 
charge  them,  when  at  times  it  became  a  hand  conflict ;  but 
as  often  as  we  charged  them,  we  were  hurled  back  as  if  by  a 
resistless  and  superhuman  power.  Officers  galloped  along  our 
lines  calling  loudly  for  another  charge.  The  lines  halted.  The 
troops  seemed  transfixed  with  horror  or  stunned  with  dismay, 
they  neither  advanced  nor  receded,  but  gazing  at  the  frightful 
line  of  the  enemy,  and  then  at  the  ground  before  them,  cov- 
ered with  their  killed  and  wounded  comrades,  they  paused, 
faltered,  and  seemed  to ,  be  fast  verging  towards  a  panic. 
It  was  a  critical  point  in  the  bloody  drama ;  the  enemy's  lines 
must  be  broken.  Generals  Kirby  Smith  and  Dick  Taylor  per- 
ceived this,  and  determined  to  throw  themselves  into  the 


WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  199 

breach,  not  in  the  spirit  of  bravado  or  a  mere  vain-glorious 
desire  of  parading  their  heroism  ;  least  of  all,  from  any  such 
petty  or  ignoble  weakness  as  that  imagined  by  small  minds — 
a  feeling  of  chagrin  and  conscious  injustice  on  account  of  the 
criticisms  and  censure  that  had  been  so  heedlessly  indulged 
in  towards  them  by  the  thoughtless  and  misinformed  (in  judging 
them  as  selling  the  Trans-Mississippi  Department  to  General 
Banks) — but  from  a  high  and  lofty  spirit  of  patriotism  and 
self-sacrifice  that  looked  only  at  the  danger  to  their  country 
and  the  cause,  which  confronted  them.  Seeing  the  inability  of 
the  other  commanders  to  make  their  men  charge  the  enemy's 
lines,  both  Generals  Kirby  Smith  and  Dick  Taylor  seized  a 
musket,  and  called  upon  the  troops  to  follow  them.  The 
grand  figures  of  their  commanders-in-chief  mounted  upon 
their  large  black  stallions,  looming  up  from  the  foreground,  so 
conspicuous  as  target  for  the  enemy's  sharpshooters,  seemed 
to  expand  to  gigantic  proportions,  as  they  beckoned  their  men 
to  the  charge.  The  gallant  troops  of  Walker's  Division  were 
the  first  to  follow.  Polignac's  Division  and  Green's  Cavalry 
caught  the  heroic  contagion,  and  now  our  line  moved  forward 
at  double-quick,  and  then,  with  a  wild  rush,  receiving  the 
deadly  iron  blast  as  it  swept  down  the  slopes,  and  rushing 
over  their  batteries,  they  scattered  the  heavy  masses  of  the 
enemy's  infantry  in  the  wildest  confusion.  This  was  the  might- 
iest effort  of  physical  force  and  courage  of  the  day ;  and  when 
it  was  performed,  the  tall  figure  of  the  patriotic  Governor  of 
Louisiana,  W.  H.  Allen,  could  be  seen  on  the  crest  of  the  hill, 
waving  his  hat  in  triumph,  while  the  shouts  of  our  troops 
echoed  far  off,  like  the  roar  of  many  waters.  The  news  is  re- 
ceived that  Scurry's  Brigade,  while  in  the  act  of  crossing 
a  ravine,  about  two  hundred  yards  from  the  enemy,  are 
attacked  by  a  large  force,  and  part  of  our  forces  are  captured, 
numbering  about  two  hundred  and  fifty  officers  and  soldiers. 
The  cause  assigned  for  their  capture  was  the  fact  that 
many  of  our  troops,  on  their  arrival  at  the  ravine,  deemed 
it  a  safe  place  to  fight  in ;  every  shot  from  the  troops  in  the 
ravine  made  a  vacancy  in  the  enemy's  ranks.  Singular  to  re- 


200  WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 

late,  the  men  in  the  ravine  found  themselves  in  squads,  with- 
out any  of  those  squads  seeing  each  other,  really  not  knowing 
the  strength  of  the  forces  until  after  they  were  taken  prison- 
ers, owing  to  the  zig-zag  shape  of  the  ravine.  The  enemy 
had  crossed  the  ravine  above  them,  and  marched  diagonally 
between  them,  thus  cutting  off  their  retreat  and  compelling 
our  men  to  surrender.  Our  cavalry,  on  the  left,  under  the 
bold  and  fearless  Green,  pressed  down  upon  the  enemy's 
flanks,  compelling  them  to  retreat,  leaving  their  dead  and 
wounded  on  the  battle-field,  and  leaving  us  in  possession  of 
their  camps  that  they  had  occupied  in  the  morning,  .we  pursuing 
them  as  long  as  we  could  see  any  of  them. 

Night  was  over  all,  and  the  stars  began  to  shine :  our 
wounded  and  those  of  the  enemy's  were  removed  and  cared 
for. 

Our  troops  were  now  utterly  worn  out.  The  men  fell  down 
in  the  ranks  from  exhaustion.  They  had  fought  for  two  days, 
in  incessant  and  unparalleled  battles,  routing  and  pursuing  the 
enemy,  which,  if  fully  related,  would  fill  a  volume  larger  than 
this  book.  The  shades  of  the  evening  began  to  gather  over 
the  scene.  The  curtain  of  night  was  about  to  fall  on  the 
bloodiest  tragedy  ever  enacted  in  the  Trans-Mississippi  De- 
partment. As  long  as  there  was  a  streak  of  light  by  which  a 
gun  could  be  aimed,  our  indefatigable  cavalry  made  use  of  it. 
Thus  closed  the  battle  of  Pleasant  Hill,  in  which  less  than 
20,000  Southern  volunteers  proved  the  equals  of  a  splendidly 
appointed  army  of  40,000  of  the  best  soldiers  in  the  United 
States  army. 

Our  loss  and  that  of  the  enemy  was  about  in  proportion  to 
the  battle  of  Mansfield.  Banks'  army  returned  to  Grand- 
Ecore,  on  Ked  Eiver,  where  they  would  be  under  the  protec- 
tion of  their  gun-boats.  During  their  retreat  they  destroyed 
the  balance  of  their  train,  lest  we  should  draw  on  their  Com- 
missary again. 


WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  201 


CHAPTEB  XXVI. 

SCENES  AFTER  THE  BATTLE. 

any  of  my  readers  have  ever  been  in  a  battle,  and 
many  of  them  I  know  have,  they  will  recall  all  the 
horrors  of  that  sad  scene — the  blood  and  carnage  of 
the  fight,  the  wild  shouts  of  victory  and  vengeance,  the  ghastly 
forms  of  the  dead  piled  in  all  shapes,  the  groans  of  the 
wounded,  who  call  on  you  in  mercy  to  shoot  them  in  order  to 
put  them  out  of  pain.  Some  bodies  are  disfigured ;  they 
have  either  been  torn  to  pieces  by  shells,  or  scattered  about 
by  horses  and  wheels  of  artillery,  Their  clothes  alone  keep 
the  shattered  remains  together. 

Dead  and  maimed  horses  lie  about,  some  still  plunging  and 
endeavoring  to  drag  their  broken  limbs  after  them.  The  poor 
animals  look  at  you  most  reproachfully,  as  much  as  to  say,  I 
had  nothing  to  do  with  all  this  carnage.  I  was  brought  here 
against  my  will,  and  why  should  I  suffer  ?  A  visit  to  the  first 
field-hospital  is  the  most  painful  thing  of  all.  It  resembles  a 
butcher's  shamble,  with  maimed  and  bloody  men  lying  on  all 
sides  ; — some  with  their  arms  off;  some  with  their  legs  off; 
some  awaiting  their  time,  while  the  doctors,  with  upturned 
cuffs  and  bloody  hands,  are  flourishing  their  knives  and  saws, 
and  piles  of  bloody-looking  limbs  are  strewn  around  them,  while 
some  who  have  died  on  the  dissecting  table,  add  to  the  ghastly 
picture.  After  ah1,  the  physical  sufferings  here  are  not  greater 
than  the  moral  sufferings  of  dear  ones  at  home,  whose  friends 
have  been  engaged  in  battle.  They  hear  that  a  great  battle 
has  been  fought — a  great  victory  won.  This  is  joyful  news, 
indeed;  but  the  heart  yearns  to  learn  the  fate  of  friends. 
Many  a  parent,  wife,  sweetheart,  tremblingly  opens  the  news- 


202  WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 

paper  and  casts  the  eye  along  the  list  of  killed  and  wounded. 
Alas !  that  cry  and  stifled  groan  tells  the  dreadful  news. 
There  is  mourning  in  that  house — mourning  in  many  a  house, 
North  and  South,  for  the  soldiers  that  will  never  return. 
There  are  broken  hearts,  gray  hairs,  desolate  homes,  widows 
and  orphans,  as  the  price  of  victory. 

There  are  some  whose  names  appear  missing  in  the  news- 
paper, and  yet  they  have  not  been  heard  from.  Friends  hope 
they  have  been  taken  prisoners.  Comrades  return  from  the 
war,  but  can  tell  nothing  about  them.  Hope  grows  into  sus- 
pense, the  heart  is  sick  of  this  uncertainty.  The  green  leaves 
become  brown  and  fall,  the  winter  passes  away,  the  beautiful 
spring  smiles  again,  yet  nothing  is  heard  from  the  long  ab- 
sent, but  not  forgotten  soldier.  No,  they  will  never  hear  from 
him  till  that  great  accounting-day,  when  all  mankind  shall  be 
summoned  together ;  for  he  dragged  himself  to  die  beneath 
the  shade  of  a  tree,  where  his  flesh  was  picked  by  the  birds 
of  the  air,  and  his  bones  have  long  since  moldered  into 
dust. 


WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  203 


CHAPTEE  XXVH. 

GENERAL  TAYLOR  AND  GOVERNOR  ALLEN'S  ADDRESS  TO  THE 
ARMY  OF  WESTERN  LOUISIANA. 

GENERAL  TAYLOR'S  ADDRESS. 

OLDIEES  OF  THE  ARMY  OP  WESTERN  LOUISIANA  : — At 
last  have  your  patience  and  devotion  been  rewarded. 
Condemned  for  many  days  to  retreat  before  an 
overwhelming  force,  as  soon  as  your  reinforcements  reached 
you,  you  turned  upon  the  foe.  No  language  but  that  of 
simple  narrative  should  record  your  deeds. 

On  the  8th  day  of  April  you  fought  the  battle  of  Mansfield. 
Never  in  war  was  a  more  complete  victory  won.  Attacking 
the  enemy  with  the  utmost  alacrity  when  the  order  was 
given,  the  result  was  not  for  a  moment  doubtful.  The  enemy 
was  driven  from  every  position  ;  his  artillery  captured,  his 
men  routed.  In  vain  were  fresh  troops  brought  up.  Your 
magnificent  line,  like  a  resistless  wave,  swept  everything 
before  it.  Night  alone  stopped  your  advance.  Twenty-one 
pieces  of  artillery,  2,500  prisoners,  many  stands  of  colors,  250 
wagons,  attest  your  success  over  the  13th  and  19th  Army 
Corps.  On  the  9th  you  took  up  the  pursuit  and  pressed  it 
with  vigor.  For  twelve  miles,  prisoners,  scattered  arms, 
burning  wagons,  proved  how  well  the  previous  day's  work 
had  been  done  by  the  soldiers  of  Texas  and  Louisiana. 

The  gallant  divisions  from  Missouri  and  Arkansas,  unfortu- 
nately absent  on  the  8th,  marched  forty-five  miles  in  two 
days  to  share  the  glories  of  Pleasant  Hill.  This  was  emphati- 
cally the  soldiers'  victory. 

In  spite  of  the  strength  of  the  enemy's  position,  held  by 


204  WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 

fresh  troops  of  the  16th  Corps,  your  valor  and  devotion  tri- 
umphed over  all.  Darkness  closed  one  of  the  hottest  fights 
of  the  war.  The  morning  of  the  10th  dawned  upon  a  flying 
foe,  with  our  cavalry  in  pursuit,  capturing  prisoners  at  every 
step.  These  glorious  victories  were  most  deadly  won.  A 
list  of  the  heroic  dead  would  sadden  the  sternest  heart. 
A  visit  to  the  hospital  would  move  the  sympathy  of  the  most 
unfeeling.  The  memory  of  our  dead  will  live  as  long  as  noble 
deeds  are  cherished  on  earth.  The  consciousness  of  duty 
well  performed  will  alleviate  the  sufferings  of  the  wounded. 

Soldiers !  from  a  thousand  homes  thanks  will  ascend  to 
the  God  of  battles  for  your  victories.  Tender  wives  and  fond 
mothers  will  repose  in  safety  behind  the  breastworks  of  your 
valor.  No  fears  will  be  felt  that  the  hated  foe  will  desecrate 
their  homes  by  his  presence.  This  is  your  reward,  but  much 
remains  to  be  done.  Strict  discipline,  prompt  obedience  to 
orders,  cheerful  endurance  of  privations,  will  alone  insure 
our  independence. 


GOVERNOR  ALLEN'S  ADDRESS  TO  THE  SOLDIERS  OF  MISSOURI, 
ARKANSAS,  TEXAS,  AND  LOUISIANA. 

In  the  name  of  the  people  of  Louisiana,  I  congratulate  and 
thank  you  for  our  late  brilliant  victories.  Your  insolent  foe, 
after  months  of  preparation,  advanced  his  vast  columns, 
supported  by  an  enormous  fleet  of  gun-boats,  marking  his 
pathway  with  pillage,  desecration,  and  wanton  destruction. 
When  he  thought  the  fruits  of  victory  within  his  grasp,  and 
when  his  mercenary  hirelings  were  gloating  over  their  plun- 
der, you  fell  on  them  with  a  blow  so  sudden  and  so  crush- 
ing, that  they  were  hurled  back  in  terror  and  dismay  on  the 
path  made  desolate  by  their  villainy.  You  have  slain,  wounded 
or  captured  one-third  of  their  grand  army,  and  every  day 
brings  some  new  token  of  your  valor,  some  new  trophy  of 
your  victory.  You  have  stript  the  Federals  of  their  well- 


205 

appointed  artillery  and  their  rich-laden  trains.  You  have 
met  the  Yankee  chief  in  the  day  of  his  pride,  and  torn  from 
him  his  laurels,  and  from  his  followers  their  stolen  wealth. 
You  have  destroyed  a  portion  of  his  boats,  and  more  will 
doubtless  fall  into  your  hands.  Louisiana  will  never  forget 
her  gratitude  to  the  noble  soldiers  who  have  punished  and 
rebuked  the  remorseless  invader  of  their  soil.  Brave,  gallant 
soldiers  !  you  fight  neither  for  pay  nor  for  fame,  but  for  inde- 
pendence and  your  sacred  rights.  Yet  fame  will  be  yours.  It 
will  be  a  proud  boast  of  the  children  of  another  age,  that 
their  fathers  fought  at  Mansfield  and  Pleasant  Hill.  In  the 
midst  of  the  turmoil  and  din  of  war  the  individual  names  of  sol- 
diers are  unheard,  but  time  hallows  their  memory  and  embla- 
zons their  deeds.  A  great,  free,  and  noble  race,  dwelling  in 
the  land  you  are  now  making  glorious  with  your  chivalry 
and  your  blood,  will  gladly  do  honor  to  those  who  fought  to 
make  them  free. 

Soldiers !  the  God  of  battles  has  been  with  you.  By  his 
help  and  your  own  stout  hearts  and  strong  arms,  you  have 
gained  the  most  complete  victory  ever  won  in  this  depart- 
ment. The  veterans  of  Missouri  vied  with  those  of  Arkansas, 
while  the  Texan  and  Louisianian  rushed  side  by  side  into 
the  shock  of  battle.  "We  have  to  mourn  the  loss  of  many  a 
gallant  son.  Let  us  drop  a  tear  over  their  hallowed  graves, 
then  seize  our  weapons  with  a  firmer  grasp,  and  push  the 
bayonet  with  a  more  deadly  thrust. 

Soldiers  !  the  eternal  God  of  justice  will  give  us  vic- 
tory in  the  end.  Our  bleeding  country  will  be  redeemed 
and  saved,  and  in  due  time  you  shall  see  your  homes 
again. 

From  "Western  Louisiana  you  send  your  brothers  in  arms, 
now  fighting  under  Lee,  Johnston  and  Beauregard,  the  glori- 
ous tidings  of  your  recent  great  victories.  We  have  more 
work  to  do.  This  campaign,  however,  will  be  short.  Our 
armies  have  thus  far  triumphed  on  every  field.  We  have 
vanquished  the  enemy  everywhere.  Within  the  last  forty 
days  we  have  gained  ten  victories.  Best  assured,  that  before 


206  WALKEE'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 

the  autumn  sun  shall  shine  upon  your  brave  and  manly 
forms,  you  will  hear  the  welcome  order  : 

"  Soldier,  rest,  thy  warfare's  o'er  ; 

Sleep  the  sleep  that  knows  no  breaking  ; 
„      Dreams  of  battle-fields  no  more, 

Days  of  danger,  nights  of  waking." 


WALKERS  TEXAS  DIVISION.  207 


CHAPTEE  XXVIIL 

THE  FEDERAL  REPORT  OF  THE  BATTLES  OF  MANSFIELD  AND  PLEASANT 
HILL,  AND  THE  RETREAT  OF  THE  FEDERAL  ARMY. 

the  13th  of  March,  1864,  one  division  of  the  13th 
Corps,  under  Brigadier-General  Mower,  and  one 
division  of  the  17th  Corps,  under  Brigadier-General 
T.  Kilby  Smith — the  whole  under  command  of  Brigadier- 
General  A.  J.  Smith — landed  at  Simmsport,  on  the  Atchafa- 
laya,  and  proceeded  at  once  toward  Fort  De  Eussy,  carrying  it 
by  assault,  at  4  30  P.  M.,  on  the  afternoon  of  the  14th.  Two 
hundred  and  sixty  prisoners  and  ten  heavy  guns  were  cap- 
tured. Our  loss  was  slight.  The  troops  and  transports  under 
General  A.  J.  Smith,  and  the  Marine  Brigade  under  General 
Ellet,  with  the  gun-boats,  moved  to  Alexandria,  which  was  oc- 
cupied without  opposition  on  the  16th  of  the  same  month. 

General  Lee,  of  my  command,  arrived  at  Alexandria  on  the 
morning  of  the  19th. 

The  enemy,  in  the  mean  time,  continued  his  retreat  through 
Cheneyville,  in  the  direction  of  Shreveport.  Officers  of  my 
staff  were  at  Alexandria  on  the  19th,  and  I  made  my  head- 
quarters there  on  the  24th,  the  forces  of  General  Franklin 
arriving  on  the  25th  and  26th  of  March ;  but,  as  the  stage  of 
the  water  in  Eed  Eiver  was  too  low  to  allow  the  passage  of 
the  gun-boats  or  transports  over  the  falls,  the  troops  en- 
camped near  Alexandria,  General  Smith  and  his  command 
moving  forward  twenty-one  miles  to  Bayou  Eapids,  above 
Alexandria.  There  were  but  six  feet  of  water  in  the  channel, 
while  seven  and  one-half  feet  were  necessary  for  second-class 
boats,  and  ten  feet  for  first-class  boats.  The  river  is  narrow, 
the  channel  tortuous,  changing  with  every  rise,  making  its 


208  WALKEK'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 

navigation  more  difficult  and  dangerous,  probably,  than  any 
of  the  Western  rivers,  while  pilots  for  the  transports  were 
reluctant  to  enter  government  service  for  this  campaign. 

The  first  gun-boat  was  unable  to  cross  until  the  26th; 
others  crossed  on  the  28th,  with  some  transports,  and  others 
still  on  the  2d  and  3d  of  April — the  passage  being  made  with 
difficulty  and  danger,  occupying  several  days. 

Several  gun-boats  and  transports,  being  unable  then  to 
ascend  the  river,  remained  at  Alexandria,  or  returned  to  the 
Mississippi.  While  at  Alexandria,  Major-General  McPherson, 
commanding  at  Vicksburg,  called  for  the  immediate  return  of 
the  Marine  Brigade — a  part  of  General  Smith's  command — to 
protect  the  Mississippi,  for  which  purpose  it  had  been  spe- 
cially organized.  The  transports  of  the  brigade  were  unable 
to  pass  above  Alexandria.  The  hospital  boat  "Woodford" 
had  been  wrecked  on  the  rapids  in  attempting  to  make  the 
passage  up.  The  troops  were  suffering  from  small-pox,  which 
pervaded  all  of  the  transports,  and  they  were  reported  in 
a  condition  of  partial  mutiny.  It  was  not  supposed,  at  that 
time,  that  a  depot  or  garrison  would  be  required  in  Alexan- 
dria, and  this  command,  being  without  available  land  or  water 
transportation,  were  permitted  to  return  to  the  Mississippi,  in 
compliance  with  the  demand  of  General  McPherson.  This 
reduced  the  strength  of  the  advancing  column  about  three 
thousand  men. 

The  condition  of  the  river,  and  the  inability  of  the  trans- 
ports to  pass  the  falls,  made  it  necessary  to  establish  a  depot 
of  supplies  at  Alexandria,  and  a  line  of  wagon-transportation 
from  the  steamers  below  to  those  above  the  falls.  This  was 
a  departure  from  the  plan  of  the  campaign,  which  did  not 
contemplate  a  post  or  depot  at  any  point  on  the  Red  River, 
and  involved  the  necessity  of  leaving  a  division  at  Alexandria 
for  the  purpose  of  protecting  the  depot,  transports,  and 
supplies.  Brigadier-General  0.  Grover  was  placed  in  com- 
mand of  the  post,  and  his  division  left  for  its  defense.  This 
reduced  the  force  of  the  advancing  column  about  three  thou- 
sand men. 


WALKEK'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  209 

While  at  Alexandria,  on  the  21st  instant,  a  movement  was 
organized  against  the  enemy  posted  at  Henderson's  Hill, 
twenty-five  miles  in  advance.  The  expedition  consisted  of 
three  brigades  of  General  A.  J.  Smith's  command,  and  a 
brigade  of  cavalry  of  the  19tli  Corps,  under  command  of 
Colonel  Lucas,  of  the  16th  Indiana  Volunteers;  the  whole 
under  command  of  Brigadier-General  Mower,  of  the  16th 
Corps.  The  enemy  was  surprised,  losing  two  hundred  and 
fifty  prisoners,  two  hundred  horses,  and  four  guns  with  their 
caissons.  Colonel  H.  B.  Sargent,  of  my  staff,  was  severely 
wounded  in  this  action,  and  disabled  from  service  during  the 
campaign.  This  affair  reflected  the  highest  credit  upon  the 
officers  and  men  engaged. 

Anticipating  by  a  few  days  the  passage  of  the  gun-boats, 
the  army  marched  from  Alexandria  for  Natchitoches,  eighty 
miles  distant  by  land,  reaching  that  point  on  the  2d  and  3d 
of  April.  The  enemy  continued  his  retreat,  skirmishing 
sharply  with  the  advanced  guard,  but  offering  no  serious  re- 
sistance to  our  advance. 

The  only  practicable  road  from  Natchitoches  to  Shreve- 
port  was  the  stage-road  through  Pleasant  Hill  and  Mansfield, 
distant  one  hundred  miles,  through  a  barren,  sandy  country, 
with  little  water,  and  less  forage,  the  greatest  portion  an  un- 
broken pine  forest. 

A  reconnoissance  from  Natchitoches  on.  the  2d  of  April, 
under  command  of  General  Lee,  discovered  the  enemy  in 
force  at  Pleasant  Hill,  thirty-six  miles  distant,  and  established 
the  fact  that  a  portion  of  Green's  command  had  arrived 
from  Texas,  and  were  then  confronting  us.  Prisoners  cap- 
tured from  Price's  command  indicated  what  had  been  feared 
from  a  loss  of  time  at  Alexandria — a  concentration  of  all 
the  available  force  of  the  enemy,  numbering,  according  to- 
the  statement  of  prisoners  and  intercepted  letters,  about 
twenty-five  thousand  men  and  seventy-six  guns. 

The  river  was  perceptibly  falling,  and  the  larger  gun-boats 
were  unable  to  pass  Grand-Ecore.     The  troops  under  com- 
mand of  General  A.  J.  Smith,  who  had  hitherto,  moved,  in 
13 


210  WALKEB'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 

transports  by  the  river,  now  marched  by  land  from  Natchi- 
toches,  with  the  exception  of  one  division  of  the  17th 
Corps — two  thousand  five  hundred  men — under  Brigadier- 
General  Smith,  which,  by  order  of  General  A.  J.  Smith,  con- 
tinued its  movement  by  the  river,  in  company  with  the  fleet, 
for  the  protection  of  the  transports.  The  arrangement  of 
land  transportation  for  this  portion  of  the  column,  the  replen- 
ishing of  the  transports  from  the  supply-trains,  and  the  dis- 
tribution of  rations  to  the  troops,  were  made  at  this  point; 
but  the 'fleet  was -unable  to  ascend  the  river  until  the  7th  of 
April.  The  condition  of  the  river  would  have  justified  the 
suspension  of  the  movement  altogether,  at  either  point,  but 
for  he  anticipation  of  such  change  as  to  make  it  navigable. 
Upon  this  point  the  Counsel  of  the  naval  officers  was  impli- 
citly followed. 

On  the  4th  of  April,  Colonel  0.  P.  Gooding,  commanding  a 
brigade  of  cavalry,  engaged  upon  a  reconnoissance  north  of 
Red  River,  encountered  Harrison's  command — one  thousand 
five  hundred  strong — in  which  the  enemy  was  defeated,  with 
considerable  loss.  Our  loss  was  about  forty  in  killed, 
missing,  and  wounded.  The  enemy's  repulse  was  de- 
cisive. 

The  army  was  put  in  motion  for  Shreveport,  via  Pleasant 
Hill  and  Mansfield,  April  6th. .  General  Lee,  with  the  cav- 
alry division,  led  the  advance,  followed  by  two  divisions 
of  the  13th  Corps,  under  command  of  General  Kansom ; 
first  division,  19th  Corps,  under  General  Emory ;  and  a  bri- 
gade of  colored  troops  under  General  Dickie — the  whole  un- 
der the  immediate  command  of  General  Franklin.  The  detach- 
ments of  the  16th  Corps,  under  command  of  Brigadier- General 
A.  J.  Smith,  followed  on  the  7th,  and  a  division  of  the  17th 
Army  Corps,  under  command  of  Brigadier-General  T,  Kilby 
Smith,  accompanying  Admiral  Porter,  on  the  river,  as  a  guard 
for  the  transports. 

The  fleet  was  directed  to  Loggy  Bayou,  opposite  Spring- 
field, where  it  was  expected  communication  would  be  estab- 
lished with  the  land  forces  at  Sabine  Cross-roads,  a  distance 


WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  211 

of  fifty  miles  by  land  from  Grand-Score,  and  one  hundred 
miles  by  water. 

I  remained  with  my  staff  to  superintend  the  departure  of 
the  land  and  water  forces  from  Grand-Ecore,  until  the  morn- 
ing of  the  7th,  and-  then  rode  rapidly  forward,  reaching  the 
head  of  the  column  the  same  evening,  where  the  main  body 
encamped.  General  Smith's  command  was  at  the  rear  of  the 
column,  on  the  march,  but  passed  the  negro  brigade  on  the 
road  to  Pleasant  Hill.  A  very  heavy  rain  fell  on  the  evening 
of  the  7th,  which  greatly  impeded  the  movement  of  the  rear 
of  the  column,  making  the  roads  almost  impassable  for  troops, 
trains,  or  artillery.  The  storm  did  not  reach  the  head  of  the 
column.  In  passing  the  troops  from  Natchitoches  to  Pleas- 
ant Hill,  I  endeavored  as  much  as  possible  to  accelerate  their 
movements. 

The  enemy  offered  no  opposition  to  the  march  on  the  6th. 
On  the  7th  the  advance  drove  a  small  force  to  Pleasant  Hill, 
and  from  thence  to  Wilson's  farm,  three  miles  beyond,  where 
a  sharp  fight  occurred,  with  the  enemy  posted  in  a  very  strong 
position,  from  which  they  were  driven  w;th  serious  loss,  and 
pursued  to  St.  Patrick's  Bayou,  near  Carroll's  rnill,  about  nine 
miles  from  Pleasant  Hill,  where  our  troops  bivouacked  for 
the  night.  "We  sustained  in  this  action  a  loss  of  fourteen  men 
killed,  thirty-six  wounded,  and  nine  missing.  We  captured 
many  prisoners,  and  the  enemy  sustained  great  losses  in  killed 
and  wounded.  During  the  engagement,  General  Lee  sent  to 
General  Franklin  for  reinforcements,  and  a  brigade  of  in- 
fantry was  sent  forward  ;  but  the  firing  having  ceased,  it  was 
withdrawn.  The  officers  and  men  fought  with  great  spirit  in 
this  affair. 

At  daybreak  on  the  8th,  General  Lee,  to  whose  support  a 
brigade  of  the  13th  Corps,  under  Colonel  Landrum,  had  been 
sent  by  my  orders,  advanced  upon  the  enemy,  drove  him 
back  from  his  position  on  the  opposite  side  of  St.  Patrick's 
Bayou,  and  pursued  him  to  Sabine  Cross-roads,  about  three 
miles  from  Mansfield.  The  advance  was  steady,  but  slow, 
and  the  resistance  of  the  enemy  stubborn.  He  was  only 


212  WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 

driven  from  his  position  on  the  cross-roads  by  artillery.  At 
noon  on  the  8th,  another  brigade  of  the  13th  Corps  arrived 
at  the  cross-roads,  under  Brig.-General  Ransom,  to  relieve  the 
1st  Brigade. 

The  infantry  moved  from  Pleasant  Hill  at  daybreak  on  the 
8th,  the  head  of  the  column  halting  at  St.  Patrick's  Bayou  in 
order  that  the  rear  might  come  up.  I  passed  General  Frank- 
lin's headquarters  at  10  A.M.,  giving  directions  to  close  up  the 
column  as  speedily  as  possible,  and  rode  forward  as  rapidly 
as  possible  to  ascertain  the  condition  of  affairs  in  front,  where 
I  arrived  between  one  and  two  o'clock.  General  Eansom 
arrived  nearly  at  the  same  time,  with  the  2d  Brigade,  13th 
Corps,  which  was  under  his  command  in  the  action  at  the 
cross-roads. 

I  found  the  army  in  line  of  battle,  the  skirmishers  sharply 
engaged,  the  main  body  of  the  enemy  posted  on  the  crest  of 
of  a  long  hill  in  thick  woods  on  both  sides  of  a  road  leading 
over  the  hill  to  Mansfield  on  our  line  of  march. 

It  was  apparent  that  the  enemy  was  in  much  stronger  force 
than  at  any  previous-point  of  the  march,  and  being  confirmed  in 
this  opinion  by -General  Lee,  I  sent  General  Franklin,  imme- 
diately on  my  arrival,  a  statement  of  the  facts,  and  orders  to 
hurry  the  infantry  with  all  possible  dispatch,  directing  Gen- 
eral Lee  at  the  same  time  to  hold  his  ground  steadily,  but 
not  advance  until  reinforcements  should  arrive.  Our  forces 
were  for  a  long  time  stationary,  with  some  skirmishing  on  the 
flanks.  It  soon  became  apparent  that  the  entire  force  of  the 
e'nemy  were  in  our  front.  Several  officers  were  sent  forward 
to  General  Franklin  to  hurry  up  the  column.  Skirmishing 
was  incessant  during  the  afternoon.  At  4.30,  P.M.,  the 
enemy  made  a  general  attack  all  along  the  lines,  but  with 
great  vigor  on  our  right  flank.  It  was  resisted  with  resolute 
determination  by  our  forces ;  but  overwhelming  numbers 
compelled  them,  after  resisting  the  successive  attacks  of  the 
enemy  in  front  and  on  the  flanks,  to  fall  back  from  their 
position  to  the  woods  in  rear  of  the  open  field,  which  they 
occupied,  retreating  in  good  order.  The  enemy  pressed  with 


WALKEB'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  213 

great  vigor  upon  the  flanks,  as  well  as  in  front,  for  thes  pur- 
pose of  getting  to  the  rear,  but  were  repulsed  in  this  attempt 
by  our  cavalry. 

At  the  line  of  woods  a  new  position  was  assumed,  sup- 
ported by  the  3d  Division  of  the  13th  Army  Corps,  under 
General  Cameron,  which  reached  this  point  about  5  P.M., 
and  formed  in  line  of  battle  under  direction  of  Major-General 
Franklin,-  who  accompanied  its  advance.  The  enemy  attacked 
this  second  line  with  great  impetuosity  and  overpowering 
numbers,  turning  both  flanks  and  advancing  heavily  upon  the 
center.  The  assault  was  resisted  with  gallantry ;  but  the  troops 
were  compelled  to  yield  the  ground,  and  fall  steadily  back. 
The  road  was  badly  obstructed  by  the  supply-train  of  the 
cavalry  division,  which  prevented  the  retreat  of  both  men  and 
artillery.  "We  lost  ten  guns  of  Ransom's  Division  in  conse- 
quence of  the  position  of  the  train,  which  prevented  their 
withdrawal.  Repeated  efforts  were  made  to  re-form  and 
resist  the  advance  of  the  enemy ;  but  though  their  progress 
was  checked,  it  was  without  permanent  success. 

Brig.-General  W.  H.  Emory,  commanding  1st  Division, 
19th  Corps,  had  been  early  notified  of  the  condition  of  affairs, 
and  instructed  to  advance  as  quickly  as  possible,  and  form  a 
line  of  battle  in  the  strongest  position  he  could  select  to  sup- 
port the  troops  in  retreat,  and  check  the  advance  of  the 
enemy.  The  order  to  advance  found  him  seven  miles  in  the 
rear  of  first  battle-ground.  He  assumed  a  position  at  Pleas- 
ant Grove,  about  three  miles  from  the  cross-roads,  on  the 
edge  of  a  wood  commanding  an  open  field  sloping  to  the 
front.  The  161st  New  York  Volunteers,  Colonel  Kins>ay  com- 
manding, were  deployed  as  skirmishers  and  ordered  to  the 
front  of  the  hill,  upon  the  edge  of  which  the  line  was  formed, 
to  cover  the  rear  of  the  retreating  forces,  to  check  the  pur- 
suit of  the  enemy,  and  give  time  for  the  formation  of  the  troops. 

General  Dwight,  commanding  1st  Division,  formed  his 
troops  across  the  road  upon  which  the  enemy  was  moving, 
commanding  the  open  field  in  front ;  the  3d  Brigade,  Colonel 
Benedict  commanding,  formed  to  the  left,  and  the  2d  Bri- 


214  WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 

gade,  General  McMillan,  in  reserve.  The  line  was  scarcely 
formed  when  the  161st  New  York  were  attacked  and  driven 
in.  The  right  being  threatened,  a  part  of  General  McMillan's 
Brigade  formed  on  the  right  of  General  Dwight.  The  fire  of 
our  troops  was  reserved  until  the  enemy  were  at  close  quar- 
ters, when  the  whole  line  opened  upon  them  with  the  most 
destructive  volley  of  musketry.  The  action  lasted  an  hour 
and  a  half.  The  enemy  was  repulsed  with  very  great  slaugh- 
ter. During  our  fight  a  very  determined  attempt  was  made 
to  turn  our  flank,  but  was  defeated.  Prisoners  reported  the 
loss  of  the  enemy  in  officers  and  men  to  be  very  great.  Gen- 
eral Mouton  was  killed  in  the  onset.  Their  attack  was  made 
with  great  desperation,  apparently  with  the  idea  that  the  dis- 
persion of  our  forces  at  this  point  would  end  the  campaign, 
and  with  the  aid  of  the  falling  river,  leave  the  fleet  of  trans- 
ports and  gun-boats  in  their  hands,  or  cause  their  destruc- 
tion. Nothing  could  surpass  the  impetuosity  of  the  enemy 
but  the  inflexible  steadiness  and  valor  of  our  troops.  The 
1st  Division  of  the  19th  Corps,  by  its  great  valor  in  this  ac- 
tion, saved  the  army  and  navy.  But  for  this  successful 
resistance  to  the  attack  of  the  enemy  at  Pleasant  Grove,  the 
renewed  attack  of  the  enemy  with  increased  force  could  not 
have  been  successfully  resisted  at  Pleasant  Hill  on  the  9th  of 
April.  We  occupied  both  battle-grounds  at  night. 

From  Pleasant  Grove  to  Pleasant  Hill,  where  this  action 
occurred,  was  fifteen  miles.  It  was  certain  that  the  enemy, 
who  were  in  reach  of  reinforcements,  would  renew  the  attack 
in  the  morning,  and  it  Was  uncertain  whether  the  command 
of  General  Smith  could  reach  the  position  we  held,  in  time 
for  another  engagement.  For  this  reason  the  army  toward 
morning  fell  back  to  Pleasant  Hill,  General  Emory  covering 
the  rear,  burying  the  dead,  bringing  off  the  wounded  and  all 
the  material  of  the  army. 

It  arrived  there  on  the  morning  of  the  9th,  at  half-past 
eight,  effecting  a  junction  with  the  forces  of  General  Smith 
and  the  colored  troops,  under  Colonel  Dickey,  which  had 
reached  that  point  the  evening  previous. 


WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  215 

Early  on  the  9th,  the  troops  were  ready  for  action,  the 
movements  of  the  enemy  indicating  that  he  was  on  our  rear. 
A  line  of  battle  was  formed  in  the  following  order :  1st  Bri- 
gade, 19th  Corps,  resting  on  a  ravine,  from  the  right ;  2d  Bri- 
gade in  the  center,  and  3d  Brigade  on  the  lefi  The  center  was 
strengthened  by  General  Smith's  forces,  whose  main  force  was 
held  in  reserve.  The  enemy  moved  toward  our  right  flank. 
The  2d  Brigade  withdrew  from  the  center  to  help  the  1st  Bri- 
gade. The  brigade  in  support  of  the  center  moved  into  posi- 
tion ;  and  another,  General  Smith's  Brigade,  was  posted  on  the 
extreme  left  position  on  the  hill,  in  echelon,  to  the  rear  of  the 
left  main  line.  Slight  skirmishing  occurred  during  the  after- 
noon. Between  4  and  5  o'clock  it  increased  in  vigor,  and 
about  5  P.  M.,  when  it  appeared  to  have  nearly  ceased,  the 
enemy  drove  in  our  skirmishers,  and  attacked  in  force,  his 
first  onset  being  against  the  left.  He  advanced  in  two  oblique 
lines,  extending  well  over  to  the  right  of  the  3d  Brigade,  19th 
Corps.  After  a  determined  resistance,  this  part  of  the  line 
gave  way,  and  went  slowly  back  to  the  reserves.  The  1st  and 
2d  Brigades  were  soon  enveloped  in  front,  right  and  rear. 
By  skillful  movements  of  General  Emory,  the  flanks  of  the 
two  brigades  now  bearing  the  brunt  of  battle  were  covered.  The 
enemy  pursued  the  brigades,  passing  the  left  and  center,  until 
he  approached  the  reserves,  under  General  Smith,  when  he 
was  met  by  a  charge  led  by  General  Mower,  and  checked. 
The  whole  of  the  reserves  were  now  ordered  up,  and  in  turn 
we  drove  the  enemy,  continuing  the  pursuit  until  night  com- 
pelled us  to  halt.  The  battle  of  the  9th  was  desperate  and 
sanguinary.  The  defeat  of  the  enemy  was  complete,  and  his 
loss  in  officers  and  men  more  than  double  that  sustained  by 
our  forces.  There  was  nothing  in  the  immediate  position  or 
condition  of  the  two  armies  to  prevent  a  forward  movement 
the  next  morning,  and  orders  were  given  to  prepare  for  an  ad- 
vance. The  train,  which  had  been  turned  to  rear  on  the  day 
of  battle,  was  ordered  to  re-form  and  advance  at  daybreak. 
I  communicated  this  purpose  at  the  close  of  the  day  to  Gen- 
eral A.  J.  Smith,  who  expressed  his  concurrence  therein. 


216  WALKEB'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 

But  representations  subsequently  received  from  General  Frank- 
lin, and  all  the  general  officers  of  the  19th  Corps,  as  to  the 
condition  of  their  respective  commands  for  immediate  active 
operations  against  the  enemy,  caused  a  suspension  of  this 
order,  and  a  conference  of  the  general  officers  was  held,  in 
which  it  was  determined,  upon  the  urgent  recommendation  of 
all  the  general  officers  above-named,  and  with  the  acquiescence 
of  General  Smith,  to  retire  upon  Grand-Ecore  the  following 
day.  The  reasons  urged  for  this  course  by  the  officers  of  the 
13th  and  19th  Corps  were :  First,  that  the  absence  of  water 
made  it  necessary  to  advance  or  retire  without  delay. 
General  Emory's  command  had  been  without  rations  two 
days,  and  the  train,  which  had  been  turned  to  the  rear  during 
the  battle,  could  not  be  put  in  condition  to  move  forward  upon 
the  single  road,  through  dense  woods,  in  which  it  stood,  with- 
out difficulty  and  loss  of  time.  It  was  for  the  purpose  of  com- 
municating with  the  fleet  at  Springfield  Landing,  from  the 
Sabine  Cross-roads  to  the  river,  as  well  as  to  prevent  the  con- 
centration of  Texan  troops  with  the  enemy  at  Mansfield,  that 
we  had  pushed  for  the  early  occupation  of  that  point.  Con- 
sidering the  difficulty  with  which  the  gun -boats  passed  Alexan- 
dria and  Grand-Ecore,  there  was  every  reason  to  believe  that 
the  navigation  of  the  river  would  be  found  impracticable. 
A  squadron  ^of  cavalry,  under  Mr.  Young,  who  had  formerly 
been  employed  in  the  surveys  of  this  country,  and  was  now 
connected  with  the  engineer  department,  which  had  been 
sent  on  a  reconnoissance  to  the  river,  returned  to  Pleasant  Hill 
on  the  day  of  the  battle,  with  the  report  that  they  had  not  been 
able  to  discover  the  fleet,  nor  learn  from  the  people  its  pas- 
sage up  the  river.  The  report  of  General  T.  Kilby  Smith, 
commanding  the  river  forces,  states  that  the  fleet  did  not  arrive 
at  Loggy  Bayou  until  2  o'clock,  P.  M.,  on  the  10th  of  April,  two 
days  after  the  battle  at  Sabine  Cross-roads.  This  led  to  be- 
lieve that  the  low  water  had  prevented  the  advance  of  the  fleet. 
The  condition  of  the  river,  which  had  been  steadily  falling 
since  our  march  from  Alexandria,  rendered  it  doubtful,  if  the 
fleet  ascended  the  river,  whether  tt  could  return  from  any 


WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  217 

intermediate  point;  and  probable,  if  not  certain,  that  if  it 
reached  Shreveport,  it  would  never  escape  without  a  rise  of 
the  river,  of  which  all  hopes  began  to  fail. 

The  forces  designated  for  this  campaign  numbered  forty-two 
thousand  men.  Less  than  half  this  number  were  actually 
available  for  service  against  the  enemy  during  its  progress. 
The  distance  which  separated  General  Steele's  command  from 
our  field  of  operations  (nearly  two  hundred  miles)  rendered 
his  movement  of  little  moment  to  us  or  the  enemy,  and  reduced 
the  strength  of  the  fighting  column  to  the  extent  of  his 
force,  which  was  expected  to  be  from  10,000  to  15,000  men. 
The  depot  at  Alexandria,  made  necessary  by  the  imprac- 
ticable navigation,  withdrew  from  our  forces  3,000  men, 
under  General  Grower.  The  return  of  the  Marine  Brigade 
to  the  defense  of  the  Mississippi  upon  the  demand  of  Major- 
General  McPherson,  and  which  could  not  pass  Alexandria 
without  its  steamers,  nor  move  by  land  for  want  of  land 
transportation,  made  a  further  reduction  of  3,000  men. 
The  protection  of  the  fleet  of  transports  on  both  sides  of  the 
river  made  it  necessary  for  General  A.  J.  Smith  to  send  Gen- 
eral T.  Kilby  Smith's  Division  of  2,500  men  from  the  main 
body  for  that  duty.  The  army-train  required  a  guard  of  500 
men. 

These  several  detachments,  which  it  was  impossible  to 
avoid,  and  the  distance  of  General  Steele's  command,  which 
it  was  not  in  my  power  to  correct,  reduced  the  number  of 
troops  from  42,000  to  20,000  men.  The  losses  in  the  three 
battles  of  the  8th,  9th,  and  10th  of  April  amounted  to  about 
8,969  men,  and  reduced  our  active  force  that  amount.  The 
enemy,  superior  to  us  in  the  outset,  by  falling  back,  was  able 
to  cover  his  great  losses  by  reinforcements,  which  were  within 
his  reach  as  he  reached  his  base  of  operations,  while  we 
were  growing  weaker  as  we  departed  from  ours.  "We  had 
fought  the  fight  at  Pleasant  Hill  with  15,000  against  22,000 
men,  and  won  a  victory,  which,  for  this  reason,  we  were  una- 
ble to  follow  up. 

Other  considerations  connected   with  the  actual  military 


218  WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 

condition  of  affairs  afforded  additional  reasons  for  the  course 
recommended. 

Between  the  commencement  of  the  expedition  and  the  bat- 
tle of  Pleasant  Hill,  a  change  had  occurred  in  the  general  com- 
mand of  the  army,  which  caused  a  modification  in  my  instruc- 
tions in  regard  to  this  expedition. 

Lieutenant-General  Grant,  in  a  dispatch  which  I  received 
on  the  27th  of  March,  at  Alexandria,  which  was  dated  March 
15,  gave  me  the  following  instructions :  "  If  you  find 
that  the  taking  of  Shreveport  will  occupy  ten  or  fifteen  days 
more  than  General  Sherman  gave  his  troops  to  be  absent  from 
their  command,  you  will  send  them  back  at  the  time  specified 
in  his  note  (blank  date)  March,  even  if  it  should  lead  to  the 
abandonment  of  the  main  object  of  the  expedition.  Should  it 
prove  successful,  hold  Shreveport  and  Bed  River  with  such 
force  as  you  deem  necessary,  and  return  the  balance  of  your 
troops  to  the  neighborhood  of  New  Orleans."  These  instruc- 
tions, I  was  informed,  were  given  for  the  purpose  of  having 
"  all  parts  of  the  army,  or  rather  all  arms,  act  as  much  in 
concert  as  possible,"  and  with  a  view  to  a  movement  in 
the  spring  campaign  against  Mobile,  which  was  certainly  to 
be  made,  if  troops  enough  could  be  obtained  without  embar- 
rassing other  movements,  in  which  event  New  Orleans  would 
be  the  point  of  departure  for  such  an  expedition. 

A  subsequent  dispatch,  though  it  did  not  control,  fully  justi- 
fied my  action,  repeated  these  general  views,  and  stated  that  the 
commanding  general  would  much  rather  the  Red  River  expe- 
dition had  never  been  begun,  than  that  you  should  be  detained 
one  day  after  the  1st  of  May  in  commencing  the  movement 
east  of  the  Mississippi. 

The  limitation  of  time  referred  to  in  these  dispatches  was 
based  upon  the  opinion  which  I  verbally  expressed  to  General 
Sherman,  at  New  Orleans,  that  General  Smith  could  be  spared 
in  thirty  days  after  we  reached  Alexandria  ;  but  it  was  predi- 
cated upon  the  expectation  that  the  navigation  of  the  river 
would  be  unobstructed  ;  that  we  should  advance  at  once  upon 
Alexandria,  Grand-Ecore,  or  elsewhere,  on  account  of  low 


219 

water,  and  that  the  forces  of  General  Steele  were  to  co-operate 
at  some  point  on  the  Ked  River,  near  Natchitoches  or  Mon- 
roe. It  was  never  understood  that  an  expedition  that  involved 
on  the  part  of  my  command  a  land  march  of  nearly  four  hun- 
dred miles  in  the  enemy's  country,  and  which  terminated  at  a 
point  which  we  might  not  be  able  to  hold,  either  on  account 
of  the  strength  of  the  enemy  or  the  difficulty  of  obtaining  sup- 
plies, was  limited  to  thirty  days.  The  condition  of  our  forces 
and  the  distance  and  difficulty  attending  a  farther  advance 
into  the  enemy's  country,  after  the  battles  of  the  8th  and  9th 
against  superior  numbers,  rendered  it  probable  that  we  could 
not  occupy  Shreveport  in  the  time  specified,  and  certain  that, 
without  a  rise,  the  troops  necessary  to  hold  it  against  the 
enemy  would  have  to  evacuate  it  for  want  of  supplies,  and 
impossible  that  the  army  should  return  to  New  Orleans  in 
time  to  co-operate  with  the  general  movements  of  the  army 
contemplated  for  the  spring  campaign.  It  was  known  at  this 
time  that  the  fleet  could  not  repass  the  rapids  at  Alexandria, 
and  it  was  doubtful,  if  the  fleet  reached  any  point  above 
Grand-Ecore,  whether  it  would  be  able  to  return.  By  falling 
back  to  Grand-Ecore  we  could  determine  the  condition  of  the 
fleet,  the  practicability  of  continuing  the  movement  by  the 
river,  reorganize  the  troops  that  had  been  shattered  in  the 
battles  of  the  7th,  8th,  and  9th  ;  possibly  ascertain  the  posi- 
tion of  General  Steele,  and  obtain  from  him  the  assistance 
needed  for  a  new  advance  up  the  river  or  upon  its  southern 
bank,  and  perhaps  obtain  definite  instructions  from  the  gov- 
ernment as  to  the  course  to  be  pursued.  Upon  these  general 
considerations,  and  without  reference  to  the  actual  condition  of 
the  respective  armies,  at  12  o'clock  on  the  9th,  I  counter- 
manded the  order  for  the  return  of  the  train,  and  directed 
preparations  for  the  return  of  the  army  to  Grand-Ecore.  The 
dead  were  buried,  and  the  wounded  were  brought  in  from 
fields  of  battle  and  placed  in  the  most  comfortable  hospitals 
that  could  be  provided,  and  surgeons  and  supplies  furnished 
for  them.  A  second  squadron  of  cavalry,  under  command  of 
Mr.  Young  of  the  engineer  department,  was  sent  to  inform  the 


220  WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 

fleet  of  our  retrograde  movement,  and  to  direct  its  return  if 
it  had  ascended  the  river ;  and  on  the  morning  of  the  10th 
the  army  leisurely  returned  to  Grand-Ecore.  The  wounded 
were  immediately  visited  by  Dr.  Sanger,  who  took  with  him 
clothes,  rations,  medicines,  and  other  supplies,  and  pro- 
nounced them  in  comfortable  condition. 

The  fleet  sailed  from  Grand-Ecore  on  the  7th,  and  ar- 
rived at  Loggy  Bayou  on  the  evening  of  the  10th,  one  day 
after  the  battle  at  Pleasant  Hill,  and  two  days  after  the  one 
at  Sabine  Cross-roads.  General  T.  Kilby  Smith  received  a 
verbal  message  on  the  evening  of  the  10th,  and  on  the  morn- 
ing of  the  llth  written  orders  to  return. 

The  transports  were  in  a  crippled  condition,  rudders  un- 
shipped and  wheels  broken.  The  enemy  attacked  the  fleet, 
on  its  return,  near  Pleasant  Hill  Landing,  on  the  12th,  with 
a  force  of  about  2,500  cavalry,  a  strong  reserve  of  infantry, 
and  ten  guns,  under  General  Green.  But  the  troops,  pro- 
tected by  cotton  bales  and  bales  of  hay,  with  the  gun-boats, 
kept  up  a  deadly  fire  and  drove  the  enemy  from  the  river. 
For  two  miles  the  bank  was  strewn  with  the  wounded  and 
dead.  Among  the  rebel  officers  who  were  killed  was  General 
Green,  who  was  left  dead  upon  the  field.  The  troops  of  the 
transports  saw  him  fall,  and  claim  it  was  the  work  of  their 
artillery — the  gun-boats  and  transports  firing  at  the  same 
time.  The  enemy,  under  Liddell,  who  had  occupied  the  north 
bank  with  2,500  men,  attacked  the  fleet  on  the  13th,  but  was 
driven  back  with  loss.  The  navigation  up  and  down  the  river 
was  intricate  and  dangerous,  and  the  steamers  were  fre- 
quently aground.  Several  of  the  boats  were  laden  with  am- 
munition and  ordnance  stores,  but  the  energy  of  the  officers 
and  men  brought  off  every  boat.  The  only  loss  in  stores  was 
one  hundred  sacks  of  oats,  thrown  overboard  to  relieve  a  boat 
aground.  They  reached  Compte  on  the  18th  with  a  loss  of 
one  man  killed  and  eighteen  wounded,  where  they  met  a  force 
sent  from  the  army  for  their  assistance,  and  reached  Grand- 
Ecore  on  the  15th  without  furthur  obstruction.  General  T. 
Kilby  Smith,  to  whom  I  am  indebted  for  much  of  my  infor- 


WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  221 

mation  on  tliis  subject,  mentions  with  commendation  Major 
D.  C.  Houston,  who  had  the  ammunition  and  ordnance  stores 
in  command,  and  Lieutenant-Colonel  W.  S.  Albert,  of  my 
staff,  who  accompanied  him ;  also  officers  and  men  of  his  own 
command,  and  masters  of  transport  steamers.  General  Smith, 
who  commanded  the  land  forces  and  transports,  is  entitled  to 
the  highest  commendation,  for  the  energy,  skill,  and  success 
with  which  he  managed  this  most  difficult  affair. 

Lines  of  defense  were  established  at  Grand-Ecore  on  the 
12th  of  April,  and  orders  given  to  attack  the  enemy  if  he  ap- 
proached. A  pontoon  bridge  was  thrown  across  the  river 
during  the  night.  Our  pickets  were  driven  in  on  the 
13th.  But  the  enemy  appeared,  upon  a  reconnoissance  made 
in  front,  to  have  gone  below,  either  for  the  purpose  of  attack- 
ing our  troops  at  Alexandria  or  occupying  Monet's  Bluff,  on 
Cane  River.  On  the  same  day  General  Smith  crossed  the 
river  with  two  brigades,  two  batteries,  and  a  strong  cavalry 
force,  to  aid  the  fleet  still  above  Grand-Ecore.  Dispatches 
were  sent  to  General  Steele  informing  him  of  the  condition  of 
affairs,  and  requesting  him  to  join  us  at  some  point  on  the 
river.  Orders  were  sent  to  New  Orleans  for  reinforcements, 
and  the  lieutenant-general  was  informed  of  the  state  of  affairs 
by  telegraph,  and  of  my  intention  to  advance  upon  Shreve- 
port  if  General  Steele  would  come  to  my  assistance,  and  of 
my  intention  not  to  withdraw  without  orders. 

The  fleet  returned  on  the  15th  in  safety,  without  the  loss  of 
vessel  or  material  of  war.  Admiral  Porter,  with  whom  I  had 
a  conference  on  his  arrival  at  Grand-Ecore,  advised  against 
any  further  attempt  to  ascend  the  river  without  a  rise,  and 
his  counsel  was  followed.  The  river  had  been  steadily  fall- 
ing. Supplies  were  brought  up  to  Ecore  with  great  difficulty. 

It  was  found  that  two  of  the  gun-boats  would  not  go  below 
Grand-Ecore,  and  it  was  now  certain  that  the  fleet  would  not 
pass  the  falls  at  Alexandria. 

Lieutenant-commander  Selfridge,  left  in  command  of  the 
fleet  by  the  admiral,  who  had  gone  to  Alexandria,  sent  me  a 
dispatch  dated  17th  April,  stating  that  he  was  informed  the 


222  WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 

army  was  to  withdraw  immediately,  and  that  it  would  be  im- 
possible in  that  case  to  get  the  boats  down  the  river.  I  in- 
formed him  at  once  that  the  army  had  no  intention  of  with- 
drawing from  that,  position  ;  that  I  had  sent  to  New  Orleans 
for  troops,  and,  by  special  messenger,  to  General  Steele  to  co- 
operate ;  and  that  till  it  was  definitely  ascertained  that  his 
assistance  would  fail  us,  and  that  my  force  would  be  insuffi- 
cient to  advance  further  upon  the  line  against  the  enemy,  who 
appeared  to  be  in  full  force,  I  should  entertain  no  thought 
of  a  retrograde  movement,  and  never,  if  it  left  the  navy  in  any 
danger.  No  such  purpose  was  entertained,  and  till  I  received 
information  in  reply  to  my  dispatches,  it  was  my  purpose  to 
maintain  my  position.  A  copy  of  this  letter  is  appended  to 
this  report.  The  next  day  I  received  instructions  from  Lieu- 
tenant-General Grant  (to  which  I  have  referred),  that  if  my 
return  was  delayed  one  day  beyond  the  first  of  May,  when  it 
would  be  necessary  for  my  command  to  co-operate  with  other 
armies  in  the  spring  campaign,  it  would  have  been  better  the 
campaign  had  never  been  attempted.  These  instructions, 
with  the  fact  that  the  river  was  not  likely  to  rise,  the  report 
received  by  Captain  E.  T.  Dunham,  that  General  Steele  could 
not  co-operate  with  us,  and  that  the  difficulty  of  passing  the 
falls  of  Alexandria  was  hourly  increasing,  if  the  passage  were 
not  even  then  impossible,  led  me  to  change  my  determination. 
It  was  not,  however,  until  the  entire  fleet  was  free,  trans- 
ports and  gun-boats,  and  that  Admiral  Porter,  in  charge  of 
the  "Eastport,"  which  had  been  aground  for  some  days 
several  miles  below  Grand-Ecore,  sent  me  word  by  Colonel 
W.  S.  Albert,  whose  statement  is  here  appended,  that  she 
was  clear,  and  further  protection  unnecessary,  that  orders 
were  given,  the  21st  of  April,  to  turn  the  supply-trains  in  the 
direction  of  Alexandria.  The  army  moved  on  the  morning  of 
the  22d  of  April,  every  vessel  having  pr^eded  both  the 
marching  orders  and  movement  of  the  army.  Any  statement 
that  the  army  contemplated  moving  from  Grand-Ecore  to- 
ward Alexandria,  against  the  advice  or  without  the  approval 
of  the  naval  officers  in  command,  or  until  the  departure  of 


WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  223 

every  vessel  in  the  river,  is  without  the   slightest  color  of 
truth. 

In  my  interview  with  Admiral  Porter,  on  the  15th  of  April, 
he  expressed  the  utmost  confidence  that  the  river  would  rise, 
and  gave  me  no  intimation  of  his  withdrawal  from  Grand- 
Ecore,  or  of  the  proposed  withdrawal  of  his  vessels,  nor  of 
the  apprehension  of  the  retreat  of  the  army.  I  gave  him  at 
that  time  distinct  information  of  my  plans,  which  were  to  ad- 
vanco.  This  fact  was  communicated  to  Lieutenant-Com- 
mander Self  ridge,  in  my  letter  of  the  17th  of  April. 

The  admiral  expressed  the  same  confidence  to  officers  of 
the  army  who  from  long  experience  in  the  Ked  Eiver  country 
were  equally  confident  that  it  would  not  rise.  The  difficulties 
attending  the  voyage  of  the  "  Eastport  "  were  incident  to  the 
condition  of  the  river,  for  which  the  army  was  in  no  wise  re- 
sponsible. I  had  offered  every  assistance  possible,  and  did 
not  leave  this  position  while  any  aid  was  suggested  or  re- 
quired. 

Colonel  Baily,  after  consultation  with  the  general  officers 
'  of  the  army,  offered  to  float  the  "  Eastport "  over  the  bars  by 
the  construction  of  wing-dams,  similar  to  those  afterward 
built  at  Alexandria ;  but  the  assistance  was  declined.  No 
counsel  from  army  officers  was  regarded  in  nautical  af- 
fairs. 

The  army  marched  from  Grand-Ecore  on  the  22d  of  April, 
having  been  detained  there  ten  days  by  the  condition  of  the 
navy.  To  prevent  the  occupation  of  Monet's  Bluff,  on  Cane 
Eiver,  a  strong  position  commanding  the  only  road  across  the 
river  to  Alexandria,  or  to  prevent  the  concentration  of  the 
enemy's  forces  at  that  point,  it  became  necessary  to  com- 
mence the  evacuation  without  his  knowledge,  and  to  prevent 
his  strengthening  the  natural  defenses,  by  the  rapidity  of  our 
march.  The  conflagration  of  a  part  of  the  town  at  the  time 
appointed  for  our  movement,  partially  frustrated  our  first 
object,  but  the  second  was  fully  accomplished. 

The  army  marched  from  Grand-Ecore  to  Cane  Eiver,  a 
distance  of  forty  miles,  on  the  22d  of  April,  and  moved  on 


224  WALKEK'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 

the  position  held  by  the  enemy,  at  daybreak,  on  the  23d. 
About  8,000  men  and  sixteen  guns,  under  command  of  Gen- 
eral Bel,  were  found  in  possession  of  the .  bluff,  on  the  oppo- 
site side  of  the  river,  who  were  surprised  to  see  the  presence 
of  our  army,  but  ready  to  dispute  our  only  passage  to  Alex- 
andria. At  daybreak  one  division  of  the  19th  and  20th,  the 
cavalry  commanded  by  General  Arnold  and  the  artillery  by 
Captain  Classon,  the  whole  under  the  command  of  General 
W.  H.  Emory,  were  ordered  forward  to  the  river  for  the 
purpose  of  forcing  this  position.  The  pickets  were  encoun- 
tered on  the  west  side  of  the  river  and  quickly  driven  across  ; 
but  the  main  division  was  found  to  be  too  strong  to  be  car- 
ried by  direct  attack.  A  reconnoitering  party,  under  Colonel 
Baily,  of  the  4th  Wisconsin  Yolunteers,  sent  to  ascertain  the 
practicability  of  crossing  the  river  below  the  ferry  toward 
Eed  Biver,  on  the  morning  of  the  23d,  reported  that  the  river 
was  not  fordable  below  the  ferry  ;  and  that,  owing  to  the  im- 
passable swamps  on  one  side  and  the  high  bluffs  on  the 
other,  it  would  be  impossible  to  cross  Cane  Biver  below  the 
ferry.  If  we  failed  to  dislodge  the  enemy,  the  only  alter- 
native was  to  attempt  a  crossing  on  the  north  side  of  the  Red 
Eiver,  a  very  dangerous  movement. 

At  the  same  time,  a  force  under  command  of  General  H.  W. 
Birge,  consisting  of  his  own  division,  the  3d  Brigade  of  the 
1st  Division,  19th  Army  Corps,  Colonel  Fessending  com- 
manding, and  General  Cauwren's  Division,  were  ordered  to 
cross  the  river  three  miles  above,  turn  the  left  flank  upon  the 
enemy,  and  carry  the  heights  in  reverse,  if  possible.  Upon 
the  success  of  this  movement  depended  the  passage  of  the 
river  by  the  army.  The  route  traversed  by  General  Birge's 
command  lay  through  bayous,  swamps,  and  almost  impen- 
etrable woods.  This  force  reached  its  position  late  in  the 
afternoon.  To  accomplish  their  purpose  it  was  necessary  to 
carry  two  strong  positions  held  by  skirmishers  and  pickets, 
before  the  enemy  was  encountered  in  force  on  the  crest  of  a 
hill  commanding  an  open  field,  over  which  our  troops  were 
forced  to  cross  in  making  the  attack.  The  3d  Brigade,  19th 


WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  225 

Corps,  Colonel  Fessending  commanding,  carried  this  position, 
which  was  defended  with  vigor,  by  assault.  Its  occupation 
compelled  the  retreat  of  the  enemy  from  the  bluffs  command- 
ing the  ferry  and  ford. 

Our  loss  in  this  brilliant  and  most  successful  affair,  was 
about  two  hundred  killed  and  wounded. 

Colonel  Fessending,  who  led  his  command  with  gallantry, 
was  severely  wounded.  General  Birge,  as  in  all  actions  in 
which  he  was  engaged,  deserved  and  received  the  highest 
commendation.  Lieutenant  William  Beebe,  of  the  ordnance 
department,  and  Mr.  Young,  of  .the  engineer  department, 
both  volunteers,  were  conspicuous  in  the  fight.  Mr.  Young 
was  twice  wounded,  and  died  in  July,  at  New  Orleans,  of 
wounds  received  in  this  battle.  The  attack  on  the  rear  of  the 
enemy's  retreat  failed  in  consequence  of  the  difficulty  en- 
countered on  the  march,  and  the  late  hour  at  which  our 
troops  gained  their  position. 

The  enemy  was  thus  enabled  to  escape  with  his  artillery, 
by  the  St.  Jessup  Koad,  to  Texas. 

The  main  body  of  the  army  had  moved  from  Clouterville, 
at  4  30,  P.M.,  on  the  23d,  to  the  river. 

They  drove  in  the  enemy's  pickets  three  miles  in  advance 
of  the  river,  and  formed  a  line  of  battle  in  front  of  the  enemy's 
position,  while  General  Birge  was  moving  on  the  enemy's 
left  flank.  The  enemy  opened  with  a  heavy  cannonade  from 
his  batteries,  which  was  returned  by  our  artillery  with  spirit 
and  effect.  The  fire  was  continued  at  intervals  during  the 
morning,  but  the  troops  were  held  in  reserve  for  the  purpose 
of  effecting  the  passage  of  the  river  the  moment  General 
Birge  commenced  his  attack  on  the  right.  The  attack  lasted 
till  dark,  when  the  enemy  retreated,  leaving  our  forces  in  pos- 
session of  the  heights.  General  A.  J.  Smith's  command  had 
sharp  skirmishing  with  the  advance  of  the  enemy  on  our  rear 
on  the  23d. 

At  two  o'clock  on  the  morning  of  the  24th,  six  guns  were 
fired  from  the  camp  of  the  enemy  in  our  rear.     It  was  inter- 
preted as   a  signal  that  they  were  ready  for  a   combined 
15 


226  WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 

attack ;  but  the  enemy  in  front  had  then  been  driven  from 
the  river,  and  the  contemplated  movement  upon  our  front 
and  rear  failed. 

During  the  morning  of  the  23d,  an  effort  was  made  by  a 
portion  of  the  cavalry  under  Colonel  E.  J.  Davis,  to  turn  the 
right  flank  of  the  enemy's  position,  by  crossing  the  river 
below  the  ferry  in  the  direction  of  Bed  .River,  which  proved 
impracticable  on  account  of  the  swamps.  A  sharp  engage- 
ment took  place  on  the  morning  of  the  24th,  between  the 
troops  of  General  T.  Kilby  Smith  and  the  enemy  in  the  rear, 
which  resulted  in  the  repulse  of  the  latter.  Our  loss  was 
about  fifty  in  this  affair. 

Had  the  enemy  concentrated  his  forces  and  fortified  his 
position  on  Monet's  Bluff,  we  could  not  have  forced  him  from 
it,  and  should  have  been  compelled  to  run  the  chances  of 
crossing  Eed  River  above  Cane  River,  in  the  presence  of  the 
enemy  on  both  sides  of  the  river.  Orders  had  been  sent  to 
General  Grover  to  move  on  Monet's  Bluff  with  his  forces, 
should  it  be  occupied  by  the  enemy,  or  our  march  be  seriously 
obstructed ;  and  his  troops  were  in  readiness  for  this  move- 
ment. The  army  marched  from  Monet's  Bluff  on  the  24th  of 
April,  and  established  lines  of  defense  at  Alexandria  on  the 
25th  and  26th  of  April. 

In  the  intervening  twenty-four  days  between  the  departure 
of  the  army  from  Alexandria  and  its  return,  the  battles  of 
Wilson's  Farm,  Sabine  Cross-roads,  Pleasant  Grove,  Pleasant 
Hill,  Compte,  Monet's  Bluff,  and  several  combats  in  the 
neighborhood  of  Grand-Ecore,  while  we  were  in  occupation 
of  that  point,  had  been  fought.  In  every  one  of  these  battles 
we  were  successful,  except  the  one  at  Sabine  Cross-roads. 
The  failure  to  accomplish  the  object  in  view  was  due  to  other 
considerations  than  the  superiority  in  numbers  of  the  enemy 
in  the  field.  In  these  operations,  in  which  my  command  had 
marched  400  miles,  the  total  loss  sustained  was  about  3,980 
men,  of  whom  289  were  killed,  1,541  wounded,  and  2,150 
missing:  a  large  portion  of  the  latter  have  since  been  re- 
turned, but  a  considerable  number  returned  at  Red  River. 


227 

None  of  the  artillery  or  stores  were  lost,  except  the  loss  sus- 
tained at  Sabine  Cross-roads.  We  lost  there  Nims's  Battery 
and  a  portion  of  the  St.  Louis  Howitzer  Battery,  150  wagons 
and  800  mules,  captured  by  the  enemy  on  account  of  the 
position  of  the  train  near  the  field  of  battle.  Up  to  this  time 
no  other  loss  has  been  sustained  by  our  army. 

As  soon  as  the  lines  of  defense  were  completed,  prepara- 
tions were  made  for  the  return  of  the  fleet, then  above  the  falls. 

From  the  difficulty  encountered  by  the  supply  transports 
in  passing  the  falls,  it  was  known  at  Grand-Ecore  as  early  as 
the  15th  of  April,  that  the  fleet  could  not  pass  the  falls,  and 
the  means  of  its  release  freely  discussed  by  army  officers. 
During  the  campaign  at  Port  Hudson,  the  steamers  "  Star- 
light "  and  "Bed  Chief,"  were  captured  by  the  Illinois  cavalry 
under  Colonel  Prince,  at  Thompson's  Creek.  The  bed  of  the 
creek  was  dry  and  the  boats  were  sunk  several  feet  in  the 
sand  after  the  capture  of  Port  Hudson.  Colonel  Baily  con- 
structed wing-dams,  and  floated  them  into  the  Mississippi. 
This  incident  naturally  suggested  the  same  works  at  Alex- 
andria for  the  relief  of  the  fleet.  A  survey  was  ordered  to 
determine  what  means  could  be  best  undertaken.  The  en- 
gineers had  completed  the  survey  of  the  falls,  captured  from 
the  enemy  during  the  campaign.  It  was  found,  upon  exam- 
ining them  and  surveying  the  river,  that  the  river  channel 
was  narrow  and  crooked,  and  formed  in  solid  rock,  and  it 
would  be  impracticable  to  deepen  its  bed. 

It  was  therefore  determined  to  construct  a  dam  and  float  the 
vessels  over  the  falls.  Capt.  Palfrey,  who  made  the  survey,  said 
he  thought  it  feasible,  and  the  only  question  was  how  long  a 
time  would  be  necessary  for  so  great  a  work. 

The  management  was  intrusted  to  Lieutenant-Colonel 
Baily,  of  the  Fourth  Wisconsin  Volunteers,  who  was  used  to 
such  work,  and  had  successfully  freed  the  boats  on  Thompson's 
Creek.  Colonel  Baily  had  suggested  building  a  dam  while  at 
Grand-Ecore,  and  had  offered  to  relieve  the  "Eastport" 
when  aground  below  Ecore  Jby  the  same  means,  which  offer 
was  declined. 


228 

Material  was  collected  and  work  commenced  on  Sunday, 
May  1st.  The  dam  was  completed  Sunday,  May  8th,  and  the 
"  Osage,"  "  Hindman,"  and  two  others  came  over  the  rapids  at 
4  P.M.  The  water  had  been  raised  by  the  dam  seven  feet, 
with  a  fall  below  the  dam  of  six  feet,  making  a  fall  of  thirteen 
feet  above  and  below  the  dam.  The  pressure  of  water  at  its 
completion  was  terrific.  I  went  over  the  work  at  eleven  o'clock 
on  the  morning  of  the  8th,  and  felt  that  the  pressure  was  so 
great  it  could  not  stand.  I  rode  immediately  to  the  point  where 
the  fleet  was  anchored,  to  see  if  they  were  ready.  I  reached 
the  fleet  about  midnight ;  scarcely  a  light  or  a  man  was  to  be 
seen.  It  was  apparent  the  boats  were  not  ready  to  take 
advantage  of  the  completion  of  the  dam,  and  feeling  it  could 
not  stand  another  day,  I  wrote  a  note  to  Admiral  Porter  at 
one  o'clock  on  the  morning  of  the  ninth,  which  was  delivered 
in  person  at  2  A.M.,  by  Col.  J.  G.  "Wilson,  stating  my 
belief  as  to  the  condition  of  the  dam  and  the  fleet,  and  asking 
that  measures  be  taken  to  put  the  boats  in  condition  to  float 
over  the  dam  at  the  earliest  moment  possible  in  the  morning. 

A  little  after  five  on  the  morning  of  the  ninth  I  saw  part  of 
the  dam  swept  away.  The  four  boats  that  had  passed  the 
rapids  the  day  before  were  able  to  pass  below  through  the 
opening  the  water  had  made.  Only  one  of  the  vessels  above 
the  falls,  the  "Lexington,"  was  ready  to  move  when 
the  dam  gave  way,  and  came  down  and  passed  the  dam 
safely,  with  all  the  vessels  that  were  below  the  rapids.  Had 
the  others  been  ready  to  move,  all  would  have  passed  the 
rapids  and  dam  safely  on  Monday.  Until  after  the  dam  had 
been  carried  away,  no  effort  had  been  made  to  lessen  the 
draught  of  the  imprisoned  vessels  by  lightening  them  of 
cargo,  armament,  or  plating.  Before  the  second  series  of 
dams  were  completed  a  portion  of  the  armament  and  the  plat- 
ing, materially  lessening  the  draught  and  depth  of  water,  were 
removed.  Lieutenant  W.  S.  Beebe  of  the  ordnance  depart- 
ment, U.  S.  A.,  superintended  the  removal  of  the  heavy  naval 
guns  from  above  the  rapids  by  land,  assisted  by  officers  and 
men  of  the  army.  The  army  immediately  commenced  the 


WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  229 

reconstruction  of  the  dam.  This  new  dam  was  completed  on 
the  12th  of  May,  and  on  that  afternoon  all  the  boats  passed 
below  the  rapids  to  the  dam.  At  six  o'clock  in  the  evening 
the  "  Mound  City  "  and  "  Carondelet "  passed  the  dam  in 
safety.  The  other  boats  remained  above  until  the  morning  of 
the  13th.  The  water  above  the  dam  was  falling,  but  at  nine 
o'clock  all  the  boats  had  passed  safely. 

Preparations  had  been  made  for  a  movement  of  the  army 
the  evening  after  the  passage  of  the  boats  below  the  dam  on 
the  twelfth,  and  after  all  were  below,  on  the  13th,  orders  were 
given  to  march. 

The  construction  of  the  dam  was  the  work  of  the  army ; 
but  little  aid  or  encouragement  was  received  from  officers  of 
the  navy,  except  Lieutenant  A.  K.  Santhorne,  commanding 
the  "  Mound  City,"  who  assisted  in  setting  the  cribs,  and  was 
always  ready  to  assist  the  officers  in  charge  of  the  work. 

The  soldiers  labored  zealously,  night  and  day,  from  the  1st 
to  the  13th  of  May  inclusive,  when  the  passage  of  the  boats 
was  completed. 

Upon  my  arrival  at  Alexandria,  on  the  25th  of  April,  I 
found  Major-Gen.  Hunter  with  dispatches  from  the  Lieuten- 
ant-General, reaffirming  instructions  which  I  had  received 
at  Ecore,  relating  to  operations  of  the  army  elsewhere  and 
the  necessity  of  bringing  the  Shreveport  campaign  to  an  end 
right  away.  The  only  possible  means  of  executing  the  orders 
had  already  been  taken.  Gen.  Hunter  left  ou  the  18th  with 
dispatches  to  the  Lieutenant-General,  informing  him  of  the 
condition  of  affairs ; — that  the  fleet  could  not  pass  the  rapids, 
that  there  was  no  course  for  the  army  but  to  remain  for  its 
protection ;  that  it  would  be  necessary  to  concentrate  all  our 
forces  to  protect  both  army  and  navy  and  destroy  the  enemy. 

Major-Gen.  McClernand,  with  the  largest  part  of  the  forces 
necessary,  recently,  at  Matagorda  Bay,  which  had  been 
evacuated  by  order  of  Gen.  Grant,  dated  March  31st,  arrived 
at  Alexandria  on  the  evening  of  the  29th  April.  Brigadier- 
Gen.  Fitz  Henry  Warren,  left  in  command  of  Matagorda  Bay, 
followed  with  the  rest  of  the  forces  in  Texas,  except  on  the 


230  WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 

Bio  Grande,  where  the  batteries  of  the  enemy  at  Marksville 
obstructed  the  passage  of  the  fleet  and  army.  While  engaged 
in  the  construction  of  the  dam,  a  dispatch  was  received  from 
Major-Gen.  Halleck,  dated  April  30th,  as  follows : 

"General  Grant  directs  that  orders  heretofore  given  be  so 
modified  as  not  to  withdraw  any  troops  'from  the  operations 
against  Shreveport  and  on  Eed  Kiver,  and  that  operations  be 
continued  there  until  further  orders." 

This  dispatch  was  not  received  until  it  was  too  late  to 
move  either  up  or  down  the  river  from  Alexandria.  It  was  of 
course  then  impracticable  to  execute  these  orders. 

Lieutenant  Simpson,  of  my  staff,  left  by  the  gun-boat 
"Signal"  with  dispatches  for  Lieutenant-Gen eral  Grant, 
Admiral  Farragut,  General  Sherman,  and  General  Kosecrans. 
The  gun-boat  Covington,  having  in  convoy  the  transport  War- 
ner, accompanied  the  Signal.  We  received  news  on  the  6th, 
of  the  destruction  of  the  gun-boats  and  transport.  The  enemy 
had  established  a  battery  near  Marksville,  supported  by  a 
large  infantry  force.  Communication  with  the  Mississippi 
was  closed  from  this  date. 

Lieutenant  Simpson  was  captured,  but  destroyed  his  dis- 
patches. The  "  City  Belle,"  on  her  way  to  Alexandria  with 
four  hundred  and  twenty-five  men  of  the  120th  Ohio  Volun- 
teers, was  captured  by  the  enemy.  Two  hundred  of  the  troops 
escaped. 

The  fleet  passed  below  Alexandria  on  the  13th  of  May.  The 
army,  on  its  march,  did  not  encounter  the  enemy  in  force 
until  near  Mansura ;  he  was  driven  through  the  town  in  the 
evening  of  the  14th.  At  daybreak  next  morning  our  advance 
encountered  his  cavalry  on  the  prairie,  east  of  the  town ;  he 
fell  back,  with  steady  and  sharp  skirmishing,  to  a  belt  of 
woods,  which  he  occupied.  The  enemy's  position  covered 
three  roads  diverging  from  Mansura  to  the  Atchafalaya.  He 
manifested  here  a  determination  to  obstinately  resist  our  pas- 
sage. The  engagement,  which  lasted  several  hours,  was  con- 
fined to  the  artillery,  until  our  troops  got  possession  of  the 
edge  of  the  woods — first  upon  our  left  by  General  Emory,  and 


WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  231 

subsequently  on  our  right,  by  General  Smith,  when  he  was 
driven  from  the  field  afte'r  a  sharp  and  decisive  fight,  with 
great  loss. 

The  16th  of  May  we  reached  Sirnmsport,  on  the  Atchafa- 
laya.  Being  entirely  destitute  of  any  material  for  building  a 
bridge  to  pass  this  river,  about  six  hundred  yards  wide,  a 
bridge  was  constructed  of  the  steamers,  by  Colonel  Baily. 
This  work  was  not  of  the  same  magnitude,  but  was  of  as 
much  importance  to  the  army  as  the  dam  at  Alexandria  was 
to  the  navy.  It  had  the  merit  of  being  an  entirely  novel  con- 
struction, as  no  bridge  of  such  magnitude  was  constructed  of 
the  same  material.  The  bridge  was  completed  at  1  o'clock, 
on  the  19th  of  May.  The  wagon-train  passed  over  that -after- 
noon ;  the  troops  next  morning,  in  better  spirit  and  condition 
to  meet  the  enemy  than  at  any  time  during  the  campaign.  The 
command  of  General  A.  J.  Smith,  which  covered  the  rear 
during  the  construction  of  the  bridge  and  passage  of  the  army, 
had  a  severe  engagement  under  Polignac,  on  the  afternoon  of 
the  19th,  at  Yellow  Bayou,  which  lasted  several  hours.  Our 
loss  was  one  hundred  and  fifty  in  killed  and  wounded  ;  that 
of  the  enemy  greater,  besides  many  prisoners  taken  by  our 
army. 

Major-General  E.  It.  S.  Canby  arrived  at  Siinmsport  on  the 
19th  May,  and  assumed  command  of  the  troops,  as  a  portion 
of  the  forces  of  the  division  west  of  the  Mississippi,  to  which 
he  had  been  assigned. 

Humors  were  freely  circulated  about  the  camp  at  Alexan- 
dria, that  the  town  would  be  burned  upon  its  evacuation.  To 
prevent  this  destruction  of  property,  part  of  which  belonged 
to  loyal  citizens,  General  Grover,  commanding  the  post,  was 
instructed  to  form  a  thorough  police,  and  to  provide  for  its 
occupation  by  an  armed  force,  until  the  army  had  marched 
for  Simmsport.  The  measures  taken  were  sufficient  to  pre- 
vent a  conflagration  in  the  manner  it  had  been  anticipated. 
But  on  the  morning  of  the  evacuation,  while  the  army  were 
in  full  possession  of  the  town,  a  fire  broke  out  in  a  building 
on  the  levee,  occupied  by  refugees  or  soldiers,  in  such  a 


232  WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 

manner  as  to  make  it  impossible  to  prevent   a   conflagra- 
tion. 

I  saw  the  fire  when  it  was  first  discovered.  The  ammunition 
and  ordnance  transports,  and  the  depot  of  ammunition  on  the 
levee,  were  within  a  few  yards  of  the  fire.  The  boats  were 
floated  out  in  the  river,  and  the  ammunition  moved  from  the 
levee  with  all  possible  dispatch.  The  troops  labored  with 
vigor  to  suppress  the  flames,  but  owing  to  the  high  wind  and 
combustible  matter  of  the  building,  it  was  found  impossible 
to  limit  its  progress,  and  a  considerable  portion  of  the  town 
was  destroyed.  On  the  1st  of  April,  two  or  three  days  before 
the  army  moved  from  Alexandria  to  Natchitoches,  an  election 
of  delegates  to  the  constitutional  convention  was  held  at 
Alexandria,  by  request  of  the  citizens  of  the  parish  of  Eapides. 
No  officer  or  soldier  interfered  with  or  took  any  part  in  it.  It 
was  left  exclusively  to  the  loyal  citizens  of  the  place. 

Three  hundred  votes  were  cast, — a  large  majority  of  the 
voting  population  of  the  parish.  Fifteen  hundred  votes  were 
a  full  representation  before  the  war. 

Nearly  five  hundred  men  from  this  and  adjacent  parishes 
enlisted  and  gave  efficient  service  during  the  campaign. 

Under  the  general  prize-law  the  naval  authorities,  upon 
their  arrival  at  Alexandria,  commenced  the  capture  of  cotton 
on  both  sides  of  the  river,  extending  eight  or  ten  miles  in  the 
interior.  Wagon-trains  were  organized,  gins  set  running,  and 
the  business  carried  on  with  great  success,  while  the  fleet  lay 
at  Alexandria.  Some  difficulty  occurred  with  the  marines, 
who  insisted  upon  their  right  to  pass  the  lines  of  the  army, 
which  was  terminated  by  the  advance  of  the  army  and  navy 
to  Grand-Ecore. 

I  was  informed  by  parties  claiming  property  which  had 
been  taken  by  the  naval  authorities,  to  whom  I  referred  them, 
that  upon  application  the  property  had  been  restored  to  them 
by  the  commander  of  the  fleet.  The  army  did  not  enter  into 
competition  with  the  navy  in  the  capture  of  this  property. 
In  order  to  remove  all  the  products  from  the  country,  that 
might  aid  in  the  rebellion  against  the  government,  General 


WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  233 

Grover,  in  command  of  the  post  at  Alexandria,  and  the 
quartermaster  at  Alexandria,  after  the  departure  of  the  army, 
were  directed  to  gather  all  property  that  might  remain  there 
after  its  departure,  and  transmit  it  to  the  quartermaster  at 
New  Orleans,  who  was  instructed  to  turn  it  over  to  the  offi- 
cers of  the  treasury,  to  be  disposed  of  according  to  the  laws 
of  Congress. 

Notice  was  also  given  to  the  supervising  agent  of  the  treas- 
ury, at  New  Orleans,  that  no  trade  was  to  be  carried  on  with 
that  portion  until  after  its  occupation  by  the  army.  No  per- 
son was  allowed  to  accompany  this  expedition  as  reporter,  or 
for  any  other  purpose,  except  on  a  written  declaration  that  no 
trade  by  private  parties  would  be  permitted  under  any  cir- 
cumstances, and  that  no  property  on  private  account  would 
be  transported  on  public  or  private  vessels  to  New  Orleans  ; 
but  that  all  property  sent  to  New  Orleans  would  be  consigned 
to  the  chief-quartermaster,  and  by  him  turned  over  to  the 
treasury  agent,  and  held  subject  to  such  claims  as  would  be 
approved  at  Washington. 

Previous  to  my  departure  from  New  Orleans,  the  chief 
quartermaster,  Col.  S.  B.  Holabird,  had  been  instructed  that  no 
privileges  would  be  given  to  any  party  whatever,  under  any 
circumstances  whatever,  to  trade  in,  dispose  of,  or  sell  private 
property ;  that  property  coming  down  from  that  country,  so 
far  as  the  army  was  concerned,  would  be  turned  over  to  him, 
and  by  him  to  the  proper  treasury  officer. 

The  same  information  was  given  to  the  treasury  agent.  No 
person  was  given  permission  to  accompany  the  army  except 
on  these  express  conditions,  and  then  only  to  persons  whose 
public  position  seemed  a  full  guarantee  against  the  abuse  of 
the  privilege,  and  when  requests  could  not  properly  be  re- 
fused. They  were  given  to  reporters  of  the  public  press,  and 
to  prominent  officers  of  States  whose  troops  were  in  the 
field. 

Upon  representation  made  by  officers  of  the  treasury  de- 
partment at  Alexandria,  that  there  would  be  some  trouble  in 
receiving  such  property,  except  upon  the  treasury  regula- 


234  WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 

tions  of  the  26th  of  January,  1864,  these  regulations  were 
officially  promulgated  for  that  purpose  at  Alexandria  and 
New  Orleans. 

These  orders  were  enforced  by  all  officers  connected  with 
or  representing  the  army.  There  was  no  privilege  given  to 
any  person  to  trade  in,  dispose  of,  or  transport  private  prop- 
erty ;  no  privilege  of  this  kind  was  recognized  under  any  cir- 
cumstances. 

Every  dollar's-worth  of  property  that  came  into  the  army's 
hands,  during  this  campaign,  was  either  appropriated  to  its 
use,  in  kind,  by  the  officers  of  the  commissary  or  treasury  de- 
partment, receipts  being  given  therefor,  or  transmitted  to  the 
chief  quartermaster  at  New  Orleans,  and  by  him  turned  over 
to  the  Treasury  Department,  to  be  disposed  of  according  to 
laws  of  Congress. 

Where  cotton  interfered  with  the  transportation  of  army 
material,  refugees  or  niggers,  or  troops,  upon  the  evacuation 
of  the  country",  it  was  thrown  from  the  boats  to  the  levee.  I 
intend  this  statement  to  be  as  comprehensive  as  language 
can  make  it,  and  to  cover  all  possible  methods,  direct  or  indi- 
rect, by  which  officers  or  citizens  could  evade  or  violate  these 
laws  on  the  river,  or  at  New  Orleans,  or  appropriate  public 
or  private  property  to  personal  advantage,  or  deprive  the 
government  or  individuals  of  any  property  which,  by  any 
interpretation  of  military  orders  or  public  laws,  could  be  con- 
sidered as  justly  belonging  to  them. 

General  Grover,  commanding  the  post,  Colonel  S.  B.  Hola- 
bird,  chief  quartermaster  at  New  Orleans,  and  Hon.  B.  F. 
Flanders,  supervising  special  agent  of  the  Treasury  Depart- 
ment, will  be  able  to  account  for  public  or  private  property 
coming  into  their  hands  during  this  campaign. 

I  was  engaged  upon  the  Gulf,  hoping,  by  the  capture  of 
Galveston  and  Mobile,  to  put  my  command  in  readiness  to 
co-operate  effectively,  by,  Mobile  and  Arkansas  River,  with 
General  Sherman,  in  accordance  with  the  campaign  suggested 
by  the  Lieutenant-General  commanding  the  armies,  in  his 
dispatches  of  the  15th  and  31st  of  March,  when  I  received 


WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  235 

instructions  to  communicate  with  the  admiral  and  officers 
commanding  the  fleet  and  forces  of  the  Upper  Mississippi, 
upon  the  subject  of  the  campaign  against  Shreveport. 

I  immediately  complied  with  these  orders.  They  had  re- 
ceived similar  instructions,  and,  upon  communication,  ex- 
pressed their  readiness  to  enter  upon  the  campaign.  With 
the  forces  contemplated,  and  the  co-operation  of  the  fleet,  its 
success  was  reasonably  certain.  Under  such  circumstances 
I  could  not  decline  co-operating  with  them.  I  at  once  aban- 
doned all  other  enterprises  and  gave  my  whole  attention  to 
this  enterprise. 

The  first  difficulty  encountered  was  encountered  in  the 
navigation  of  the  river.  Sixteen  days'  delay  in  passing  the 
rapids  at  Alexandria,  and  three  days'  delay  at  Grand-Ecore 
in  awaiting  the  rise  of  the  river,  enabled  him  (the  enemy)  to 
concentrate  his  forces,  and  rendered  impossible  that  celerity 
of  movement  on  which  the  enterprise  rested.  Eight  days  of  the 
delay  at  Alexandria  may  be  attributed  to  the  delay  of  organ- 
izing Franklin's  command  ;  but  the  fleet  was  unable  to  pass 
the  rapids  until  eight  days  after  his  arrival  at  Alexandria. 
This  delay  was  owing  to  the  impracticable  navigation  of  the 
river ;  but  it  is  not  improper  to  say,  that  the  forecast  and 
diligence  which  are  forced  upon  men  in  the  daily  routine  of 
life  would  have  forbidden  an  attempt  to  force  a  fleet  of  so 
much  importance  to  the  free  navigation  of  the  Mississippi,  to 
a  point  from  which  it  could  never  hope  to  escape,  unless  on 
the  theory  that  the  river  ought  to  or  would  rise.  The  move- 
ment of  the  navy,  in  a  dispatch  of  Bear-Admiral  D.  D. 
Porter,  to  which  the  Secretary  of  the  Navy  has  given  official 
publication  and  sanction,  is  attributed  to  the  request  of  Gen- 
eral Banks,  who  deemed  the  co-operation  of  the  gun-boats  so 
essential  for  success  that  he  (Porter)  had  to  run  some  risks, 
and  get  them  over  the  falls.  This  implies  that  the  responsi- 
bility of  his  action  rests  upon  the  army  ;  but  it  is  not  consist- 
ent with  the  facts. 

The  co-operation  of  the  navy  was  an  indispensable  basis  of 
the  expedition.     Major-General  Halleck  informed  me,  Jan- 


236  WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 

nary  llth,  that  he  had  been  informed  that  Admiral  Porter 
would  be  prepared  to  co-operate  with  the  army  in  its  move- 
ments ;  and  the  admiral  himself  informed  me,  February  26th, 
that  he  was  prepared  to  ascend  Red  River  with  a  large  fleet 
of  gun-boats,  and  to  co-operate  with  the  army  at  any  time 
when  the  water  was  high  enough.  The  fleet  was  as  necessary 
to  the  campaign  as  the  army.  Had  it  been  left  to  my  direction, 
I  should  have  preferred  undertaking  a  campaign  requiring  but 
eight  or  ten  light-draft  gun-boats,  to  forwarding  twenty  heavy 
iron-clads  490  miles,  on  a  river  proverbially  as  treacherous  as 
the  rebels  who  defended  it,  and  which  had  given  notice  of  its 
character  by  falling  when  the  other  rivers  were  rising. 

There  is  a  better  reason  for  disregard  of  the  palpable  diffi- 
culties of  navigation,  than  the  over-zealous  counsels  of  the 
army  officers  in  nautical  affairs.  Admiral  Porter  afterwards 
dispatched  to  me  :  "  I  have  reached  Grand-Ecore  with  my 
vessels  with  ease,  and  with  some  of  them  I  reached  Spring- 
field Landing,  the  place  designated  for  the  boats  to  meet  the 
army.  My  part  was  completed.  The  failure  of  the  army  to 
advance,  and  the  retreat  to  Grand-Ecore,  left  me  entirely  at 
the  mercy  of  the  enemy."  The  records  of  the  campaign  do 
not  all  support  the  fiery  ardor  of  this  statement. 

The  fleet  did  not  reach  the  designated  point  until  two  days 
after  the  first  decisive  battle  with  the  enemy.  The  admiral 
occupied  four  days  in  moving  104  miles,  on  what  he  called  a 
rising  river,  with  good  water,  to  the  place  appointed.  General 
T.  Kilby  Smith  reports,  that  the  fleet  made  twenty-seven 
miles  on  the  7th,  fifty-seven  on  the  8th,  sixteen  on  the  9th, 
and  nine  on  the  10th  of  April ;  total,  104  miles.  The  failure  of 
the  fleet,  with  usual  expedition,  together  with  the  fact  that  the 
gun-boats  were  unable  to  pass  Grand-Ecore  until  the  7th,  jus- 
tifies the  conclusion  that  its  advance  was  hindered  by  low 
water,  and  governed  the  army  in  its  retrograde  movement  to 
Grand-Ecore,  as  it  did  on  every  important  occasion  during  the 
campaign.  The  admiral's  dispatch  does  not  state  that,  besides 
the  mercy  of  the  enemy,  he  had  left  to  him  General  T.  Kilby 
Smith's  command  of  2,500  men,  whose  most  gallant  act  is  not 


WALKERS  TEXAS  DIVISION.  237 

mentioned  at  all  in  what  the  admiral  calls  "this  curious 
affair  "  between  the  enemy's  infantry  and  the  gun-boats.  In 
view  of  the  published  dispatches  of  Admiral  Porter,  it  is  my 
duty  to  say,  that  every  position  of  difficulty  in  which  the 
army  was  placed  was  the  immediate  result  of  the  delay  of  the 
navy.  This  may  have  been  inevitable  and  entirely  justi- 
fiable, from  the  condition  of  the  river — it  is  not  my  province 
to  pass  judgment ;  but  the  fact  remains,  nevertheless. 

During  my  term  of  service  it  has  been  my  rule  of  conduct 
not  to  pass  judgment  on  the  conduct  of  other  officers,  but  I 
feel  it  my  bounden  duty  to  say,  in  this  official  and  formal 
answer,  that  the  published  statement  of  Admiral  Porter,  in 
reference  to  the  Red  River  campaign,  is  at  variance  with  the 
truth,  of  which  there  are  many  thousand  living  witnesses, 
and  does  foul  injustice  to  the  officers  and  men  of  the  army  ,to 
whom  the  navy  department  owes  exclusively  the  preserva- 
tion and  honor  of  the  fleet. 

The  partial  disintegration  of  several  commands  assigned  to 
this  expedition  was  a  cause  of  embarrassment,  but  not  of 
failure. 

The  command  of  Major-General  Steele,  whose  command,  I 
was  informed  by  Major-General  Sherman,  would  be  15,000 
strong,  numbered,  in  fact,  but  7,000  men ;  these  operating 
over  a  line  700  miles  in  extent,  whose  purpose  or  results  were 
entirely  iinknown  to  me. 

I  was  informed  by  General  Steele,  that  if  any  advance  was 
to  be  made  at  all,  it  would  have  to  be  made  by  the  TVashita 
and  Red  Rivers,  and  that  he  might  be  able  to  move  his  com- 
mand to  Monroe  for  that  purpose.  This  would  have  united 
our  forces  on  Red  River,  and  insured  the  success  of  the  cam- 
paign. On  the  28th  of  February,  he  informed  me  he  could  not 
move  by  the  way  of  Monroe  ;  and  on  March  1st,  one  day  be- 
fore I  was  ordered  to  move,  I  was  informed  by  General  Sher- 
man that  he  had  ordered  General  Steele  to  move  direct  to 
Shreveport.  March  5th,  I  was  informed  by  General  Halleck 
that  he  had  no  knowledge  of  Steele's  movement,  except  that 
he  had  been  ordered  to  facilitate  my  movements  toward 


238  WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 

Shreveport.  March  10th,  General  Steele  informed  me  that- 
his  objections  against  the  road  I  wished  him  to  take  were 
stronger,  and  that  he  would  move  to  Washington,  and  thence 
to  Shreveport.  I  received  information  on  the  26th,  dated 
March  6th,  from  Major-General  Halleck,  that  he  had  in- 
structed General  Steele  to  make  a  real  movement,  as  sug- 
gested by  you  (Banks),  instead  of  a  demonstration  that  he 
(Steele)  thought  advisable.  In  April,  General  Halleck  in- 
formed me  that  he  had  ordered  General  Steele  to  cooperate 
with  me  with  all  available  forces.  April  16th,  I  was  informed 
by  General  Sherman  that  he  had  ordered  Steele  to  concen- 
trate all  his  available  forces  with  my  army  and  navy.  In 
May  I  received  information  of  April  28th,  from  Steele,  say- 
ing he  could  not  leave  Camden  unless  supplies  were  sent  him, 
as  those  of  the  country  were  exhausted ;  that  we  could  not 
help  each  other,  our  lines  operating  so  far  from  each  other ; 
that  he  could  not  say,  definitely,  he  would  join  me  at  any  given 
time  or  place  on  Red  Eiver ;  and  that  from  the  distance  be- 
tween us  I  could  render  him  no  assistance — an  opinion  in 
which  I  concurred.  I  never  received  authority  to  give  orders 
to  General  Steele ;  my  orders  were  to  communicate  with  him 
on  the  subject  of  the  expedition.  His  orders  he  received  from 
other  sources.  I  have  no  doubt  that  General  Steele  did  all 
in  his  power  to  insure  success ;  but,  as  communication  with 
him  was  necessary  by  special  messenger,  and  occupied  from 
fifteen  to  twenty  days,  for  each  communication,  it  was  impos- 
sible for  either  of  us  to  fully  comprehend  the  relative  position 
of  the  two  armies,  or  to  assist  or  support  each  other. 

The  command  of  General  A.  J.  Smith  was  a  partially  inde- 
pendent command.  General  Sherman,  in  his  dispatch  of  the 
16th,  dated  the  10th,  informed  me  that  the  thirty  days  for  which 
he  lent  me  General  Smith's  command  would  expire  on  the  10th 
of  April — the  day  after  the  battle  of  Pleasant  Hill.  General 
Smith's  instructions  compelled  him  to  correspond  with  Admi- 
ral Porter.  His  orders  were  dated  "  Headquarters,  Eed  Eiver 
Expedition,  Steamer  Clara  Bell."  He  never  received  orders 
from  me.  He  was  in  no  wise  accountable  for  the  failure  of 


WALKER'S  TEXAS   DIVISION.  239 

the  expedition,  and  may  be  said  to  have  gained  as  much  by 
its  failure  as  by  its  success.  After  his  thirty  days  had  run  out, 
he  claimed  the  right  to  go  to  Yicksburg,  notwithstanding  the 
condition  of  the  army  or  fleet,  and  did  not  hold  himself  re- 
sponsible for  any  damage  done  them  by  his  departure,  nor 
for  the  lack  of  that  attention  which  their  preservation  de- 
manded ;  that  responsibility  I  was  called  upon  to  assume  in 
written  orders.  I  entertain  no  doubt  that  his  official  course 
was  in  consistency  with  his  orders.  I  cheerfully  acknowledge 
the  generous  efforts  made  by  General  Mower,  of  the  16th,  and 
General  T.  Kilby  Smith,  of  the  17th  Corps,  to  infuse  into  the 
different  corps  that  unity  which  was  necessary  for  the  success 
of  the  campaign. 

I  gladly  accord  to  the  men  the  honor  of  having  fought  a 
desperate  enemy,  superior  in  number,  with  as  much  gallantry 
and  success  as  that  which  signalized  my  immediate  command. 
No  higher  praise  than  this  can  be  accorded  any  soldiers. 
Alexander's  troops  never  fought  better. 

The  result  of  the  position  of  the  cavalry-train,  and  the 
loose  order  of  march  of  Major- General  Franklin's  command, 
on  the  8th  of  April,  before  the  battle  of  Pleasant  Hill,  has 
been  stated.  A  commanding  officer  is  responsible  for  what 
happens  to  his  troops,  no  matter  what  the  cause.  I  do  not 
shrink  from  this  responsibility.  But  while  it  was  both  proper 
and  necessary  for  me  to  give  personal  attention  to  the  move- 
ment from  Grand-Ecore,  on  the  morning  of  the  7th,  it  was 
supposed  that  the  moving  of  a  column  of  15,000  men,  moving 
in  a  single  road  for  not  less  than  fifty  miles,  in  such  a  manner 
as  to  be  able  to  encounter  the  enemy,  if  he  offered  resistance, 
might  safely  be  intrusted  to  an  officer  of  the  reputation  and 
experience  of  General  Franklin,  whose  rank,  except  in  one 
instance,  was  superior  to  that  of  any  one  of  the  officers  in  the 
Gulf  Department. 

I  make  no  complaint  of  the  navy,  except  in  view  of  the 
prolific  dispatches  long  since  published  on  this  campaign. 
I  may  properly  repeat  a  few  facts  already  stated.  The  suc- 
cess of  the  expedition  depended  on  celerity  of  movement. 


240  WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 

The  navy  delayed  the  army  sixteen  days  at  Alexandria,  and 
three  days  at  Grand-Ecore  ;  it  occupied  four  days  in  going  104 
miles  upon  what  the  dispatches  call  a  rising  river  and  good 
water ;  where  it  arrived  two  days  after  the  first,  and  one  day 
after  the  decisive  battle  of  the  campaign,  at  Pleasant  Hill. 
These  are  not  opinions,  they  are  facts ;  to  the  army  they  are 
bloody  and  pregnant  events.  The  difficult  navigation,  the 
failure  to  concentrate  the  forces,  and  the  limited  time  were 
the  cause  of  its  failure.  We  owe  nothing  to  the  enemy — not 
even  our  defeat. 

Could  any  one  of  these  difficulties  have  been  avoided,  the 
success  would  have  been  accomplished.  But  the  occupation 
of  Shreveport  could  not  be  maintained.  The  presence  of  the 
enemy  would  have  required  such  a  powerful  force  for  its  de- 
fense as  could  not  have  been  obtained  by  the  river,  and  for 
which  no  other  preparation  had  been  made,  as  suggested  in 
my  dispatches  of  March  30th.  The  only  way  of  keeping  this 
place  would  be  by  concentrating  a  force  superior  to  that  of 
the  enemy,  with  time  to  pursue  wherever  he  might  go,  even 
if  it  took  us  to  Galveston  and  the  Gulf  Coast.  This  was 
suggested  as  a  possible  means  of  the  results  of  the  cam- 
paign, but  was  not  embraced  in  the  original  plan,  and  it 
was  specially  precluded  by  the  Lieutenant-General  command- 
ing the  army. 

I  remain 

Your  obedient  servant, 

N.  P.  BANKS,  M.  G.  V. 


WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  241 


CHAPTEE   XXIX. 


MARCHING  ORDERS.  —  EN  ROUTE  FOR  CAMDEN.  —  DEATH  OF  GENERAL  TOM 
GREEN.  —  ARRIVAL  OF  THE  3D  TEXAS  INFANTRY.  —  NAMES  OF  THE  OFFI- 
CERS. —  MARCH  THROUGH  SHREVEPORT  AND  MINDEN.  —  GENERAL  KIRBY 

SMITH'S  ADDRESS.  —  OPERATIONS  OF  THE  ARKANSAS  AND  MISSOURI  CAV- 

ALRY.— EVACUATION  OF  CAMDEN.  —  IN  PURSUIT  OF  THE  ENEMY.  —  DESO- 
LATION OF  THE  COUNTRY.  —  BREAKERS  AHEAD. 


HE  morning  of  the  10th  of  April  dawned,  and  behold- 
ing no  enemy  in  sight,  we  learned,  much  to  our  sur- 
prise, that  they  had  retreated  during  the  night,  as 
they  had  done  after  the  battle  of  Mansfield.  Our  division 
received  orders  to  fall  back  towards  Mansfield.  The  Arkan- 
sians  and  Missourians  were  likewise  ordered  to  fall  back, 
leaving  the  cavalry  and  Polignac's  Division  of  Infantry  to  pur- 
sue the  enemy. 

After  falling  back  from  the  battle-field,  we  continued  our 
march  some  ten  miles,  when  we  arrived  in  camp.  Shortly 
after  our  arrival  in  camp,  we  received  orders  to  be  ready,  at  a 
moment's  notice,  to  take  up  the  line  of  march  for  Camden, 
Arkansas,  for  the  purpose  of  giving  battle  to  the  enemy,  who 
had  possession  of  the  town.  The  force  of  the  enemy  at  Cam- 
den  was  variously  estimated  at  18,000  men,  under  the  com- 
mand of  General  Steele,  who  had  previously  preconcerted  the 
plan  with  General  Banks  to  meet  him  at  Shreveport.  How 
far  the  two  armies  got  towards  Shreveport  the  sequel  will 
show. 

On  the  morning  of  the  llth  we  continued  the  march. 
After  marching  about  ten  miles,  we  arrived  at  camp,  north  of 
the  town  of  Mansfield.  Shortly  after  our  arrival  in  camp,  we 
heard  the  melancholy  news  of  the  death  of  General  Tom 
Green.  He  was  killed  at  Blair's  Landing,  on,  Ked  Kiver, 
16 


242  WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 

while  he  was  in  the  act  of  placiog  his  artillery,  in  order  to 
destroy  the  enemy's  fleet. 

April  14th.  Marched  twenty-one  miles. 

April  15th.  •  Marched  twenty  miles.  Shortly  after  our  depart- 
ure from  camp,  we  passed  by  the  camp  of  the  3d  Texas  Infant- 
ry, commanded  by  Colonel  Sackett ;  they  had  just  arrived  from 
Texas,  and  were  ordered  to  report  for  duty  to  General  Scurry ; 
they  were  assigned  to  his  brigade.  On  our  march  through 
the  city  of  Shreveport,  you  could  behold  thousands  of  officers 
gossiping  over  the  late  victories.  We  crossed  Ked  Eiver  at 
Shreveport,  on  a  pontoon  bridge,  and  camped  about  two  miles 
from  the  city. 

April  16th.  Marched  ten  miles,  and  camped  on  Bayou  Red 
Chute. 

NAMES  OF  THE  OFFICERS  OF  THE  3D  T.  V.  INFANTRY. 

Colonel — P.  N.  SACKETT. 
Lieut.-Col.—E.  F.  GHAT. 
Major — S.  G.  NEWTON. 
Surgeon — E.  W.  BRITTON. 
Assistant  Surgeon — R.  L.  HARRIS. 
Quartermaster — F.  SEIBERT. 

Commissary —    

Adjutant — HENRY  McCoRMicK. 


COMPANY  A. 

Captain,  F.  Frickie. 
1st  Lieut.,  E.  Merreim. 
2d  Lieut.,  L.  D.  Brewster. 
2d  Lieut.,  F.  Dreyzehner. 

COMPANY  B. 

Captain,  P.  J.  Biesenbuck. 
1st  Lieut.,  F.  C.  Radcliff. 
2d  Lieut. ,  A.  Koeing. 
2d  Lieut.,  Gusteve  Uhl. 

COMPANY  C. 

Captain,  D.  Lively. 
1st*  Lieut. ,  B.  H.  Luckett. 
.,  W.  C.  Anderson. 
.  C.  Daily. 


COMPANY  D. 

Captain,  J.  B.  Hicks. 
1st  Lieut.,  O.  Newman. 
2d  Lieut.,  P.  Scott. 


COMPANY  E. 

Captain,  Miles  Elkins. 
1st  Lieut.,  Sam  Fleming. 
2d  Lieut.,  G.  W.  Bird. 
2d  Lieut.,  Leonard  Moss. 

COMPANY  F. 

Captain,  Jno.  Rosenheimer. 
1st  Lieut.,  Manuel  Ztuni. 
2d  Lieut.,  Jules  Hafner. 


WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  243 


COMPANY  G. 

Captain,  F.  H.  Sherliagen 
1st  Lieut.,  P.  Shardin. 
2d  Lieut.,  Allison  Ryinan. 


COMPANY  H. 

Captain,  T.  H.  Hulig. 
1st  Lieut.,  Wm.  Byrd. 


COMPANY  I. 

Captain,  J.  M.  Trainer. 
1st  Lieut.,  John  Watson. 
3d  Lieut.,  L.  H.  Brown. 
2d  Lieut.,  L.  H.  Brown. 

COMPANY  K. 

Captain,  Jules  Bosi. 
1st  Lieut.,  L.  Sarasin. 
3d  Lieut.,  H.  Schlenning. 


April  17th.  Crossed  Bayou  Red  Chute,  on  a  pontoon  bridge. 
Marched  through  the  village  of  Fillmore,  and  camped  near 
the  town  of  Minden,  after  marching  twenty  miles. 

April  18th.  Passed  through  the  town  of  Minden,  with  ban- 
ners flying,  and  keeping  step  to  the  tune  of  "  Dixie."  The 
streets  were  crowded  with  young  ladies,  waving  their  handker- 
chiefs, and  cheering  us  most  lustily.  Their  enthusiasm 
seemed  to  know  no  bounds,  and  at  every  gate  they  stood  with 
bouquets  to  present  to  the  troops  as  they  passed.  May  patri- 
otic Minden  long  prosper,  and  never  may  her  streets  be  trod 
by  any  hated  foe !  We  arrived  at  camp  early  in  the  day, 
after  marching  twelve  miles.  We  rested  at  this  camp  until 
the  morning  of  the  20th.  The  men  and  animals  were  thor- 
oughly fagged  out.  While  remaining  at  this  camp,  the  fol- 
lowing patriotic  address  from  General  Kirby  Smith  was  read 
on  dress  parade  to  us. 


God  has  blessed  our  arms  with  signal  victories  at  Mans- 
field and  Pleasant  Hill.  The  general  commanding  finds  it  an 
appropriate  occasion  to  pay  a  well-merited  tribute  to  the  en- 
durance and  valor  of  the  troops  engaged  in  these  battles. 

Collected  from  remote  points — from  Missouri,  Arkansas, 
Louisiana,  and  Texas — after  long  and  tedious  marches,  their 
combined  courage  has  gained,  on  the  soil  of  Louisiana,  the 
patriot-soldier's  highest  reward,  victory.  They  have  driven 


244  WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 

in.^jonfused  flight  from  the  battle-field  the  boastful  minions 
of  despotism. 

In  the  name  of  a  grateful  people  I  thank  them  for  this 
splendid  result.  While  we  mourn  for  the  glorious  dead,  and 
sympathize  with  the  heroic  wounded,  let  us  take  courage  for 
the  future. 

By  prompt  obedience  to  orders  and  patient  endurance,  we 
will  be  enabled  to  repeat  this  great  achievement  whenever 
the  enemy  shall  advance  in  force  against  any  part  of  the 
Trans-Mississippi  Department. 

When  the  soldiers  of  Missouri,  Arkansas,  Louisiana,  and 
Texas  stand  together  in  battle,  with  the  blessing  of  God,  we 
confidently  expect  victory. 

The  names  of  Mansfield  and  Pleasant  Hill  will  be  inscribed 
on  the  colors  of  the  regiments  engaged  in  these  battles. 

(Signed,)  General  E.  KIRBY  SMITH. 

On  the  morning  of  the  20th  we  marched  six  miles,  to 
Walnut  Creek,  and  camped,  by  order  of  General  E.  Kirby 
Smith,  who  had  taken  the  field  in  person.  He  announced 
taking  command  in  person  as  follows  : 

"  Major-General  E.  Kirby  Smith  assumes  command  of  the 
army  of  Arkansas.  His  headquarters  will  be  at  the  junction 
of  the  Wire  and  Buena  Vista  roads. 

Major-General  Price  is  hereby  assigned  to  the  immediate 
command  of  the  Missouri  and  Arkansas  divisions  of  infantry." 

After  taking  command,  he  wrote  to  General  Taylor,  describ- 
ing the  situation  of  the  enemy  at  Camden.  He  estimated  the 
enemy's  force  at  about  18,000.  He  established  his  head- 
quarters at  Woodlawn,  within  seventeen  miles  of  Camden. 
He  immediately  ordered  a  cavalry  force  of  3,000,  under  com- 
mand of  General  Fagan,  across  the  Ouachita  Eiver,  to  cut  off 
the*  enemy's  supplies,  between  Pine  Bluff  and  Camden.  He 
also  instructed  General  Fagan  to  attack  Pine  Bluff  and  Little 
Rock,  as  those  two  towns  had  but  a  very  small  garrison  for  their 
defense.  If  successful  in  capturing  those  two  towns,  to  cross 
the  Arkansas  Eiver  and  destroy  the  enemy's  depot  at  Duval's 


WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  245 

Bluff,  on  White  Kiver,  and  unite  his  forces,  if  possible,  with 
General  McKae,  who  was  engaged  in  collecting  all  the  availa- 
ble forces  inside  the  enemy's  lines. 

While  encamped  at  Walnut  Creek,  our  camps  were  com- 
pletely beset  by  the  female  inhabitants  of  the  surrounding 
country,  many  coming  from  a  distance  of  fifteen  and  twenty 
miles,  to  see  the  soldiers,  and  hear  the  bands  play.  While 
remaining  here,  we  learned  that  the  Federal  general,  Steele, 
was  strongly  fortified  at  Camden,  but  that  he  was  closely  in- 
vested by  General  Price's  army,  with  no  possible  chance  of 
his  escape. 

Many  amusing  incidents  occurred  between  the  ladies  and 
soldiers  of  this  camp.  The  soldiers  used  to  visit  the  farmers' 
dwellings,  especially  where  there  were  some  bright-eyed 
lassies ;  thus  exhibiting  that  fondness  for  feminine  society 
and  companionship  which  characterized  them  when  at  home. 
A  worthy  private  soldier,  with  his  "  chums,"  comprising  an 
entire  mess,  had  been  frequent  visitors  at  a  farmer's  house 
near  the  encampment,  where  two  really  handsome  and  accom- 
plished ladies  resided.  Rising  one  day  from  an  agreeable 
tete-a-tete  over  the  dinner-table,  two  or  three  of  the  men  con- 
sidered it  nothing  more  than  an  act  of  politeness  to  invite  the 
farmer  and  his  family  to  take  dinner  with  them  the  following 
day.  "  I  shall  certainly  do  so,  with  pleasure,"  was  the  reply. 
Nothing  more  was  thought  of  the  invitation  until  the  next 
morning,  near  the  dinner-hour,  when  who  should  make  their 
appearance  in  camp  but  the  farmer,  wife,  daughters,  and 
small  members  of  the  family  (as  he  had  promised),  to  dine 
with  the  "boys."  There  was  nothing  prepared,  and,  worse 
than  all,  no  provisions  on  hand  with  which  to  prepare  a  suita- 
ble dinner.  The  joke  was  soon  known  all  over  camp.  The 
men  strolled  negligently  about  the  unfortunate  victims  in 
groups,  to  enjoy  and  add  to  their  discomfiture  ;  and  sly  jokes, 
witticisms,  and  suppressed  laughter  greeted  them  on  all 
sides,  as  they  escorted  their  visitors  through  the  encampment. 
They  determined  not  to  be  the  subject  of  fun  for  the  whole 
regiment;  so,  "nil  desperandum"  with  commendable  zeal  a 


246  WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 

portion  of  the  mess  made  preparations  for  dinner,  while  the 
remainder  "  played  the  agreeable."  By  dint  of  borrowing 
and  begging,  a  really  nice  meal  was  served  up,  consisting  of 
the  following  bill  of  fare  :  corn-bread,  hominy,  with  some 
rancid  blue  beef.  "  Not  very  palatable,"  says  the  farmer,  "  but 
I  take  a  little  to  prevent  hunger."  Now,  add  to  this  most 
detestable  water,  and  the  bill  of  fare  is  completed.  The  mess, 
for  once  in  the  history  of  the  company  to  which  they  belonged, 
were  excused  from  drill  that  day,  and  a  fashionable  meal 
eaten  in  the  encampment. 

The  weather  was  dark,  gloomy,  and  very  damp,  while  we  re- 
mained at  this  camp,  but  even  that  didn't  keep  the  ladies  away. 
They  still  roamed  through  the  camp,  gratifying  their  natural 
curiosity.  On  the  morning  of  the  24th  inst.  we  resumed  the 
march  in  the  direction  of  Camden ;  crossed  the  State  line 
dividing  Arkansas  and  Louisiana;  noticed  a  change  in  the 
character  of  the  country. 

April  25th.  Marched  sixteen  miles.  Passed  through  a  lit- 
tle town  named  Calhoun.  After  our  arrival  in  camp,  we 
learned  that  General  Steele  had  succeeded  in  getting  supplies 
from  Pine  Bluff. 

On  the  morning  of  the  26th,  we  marched  eighteen  miles, 
and  camped  within  twelve  miles  of  Camden.  Many  were  the 
surmises,  rumors,  and  reports  about  Steele's  army.  Occasion- 
ally we  would  hear  that  General  Price's  army  had  the  enemy 
completely  surrounded,  with  no  possible  chance  of  escape,  and 
momentarily  expecting  the  surrender  of  Steele  and  his  army  ; 
and  again,  we  heard  that  General  Price  had  all  the  forces 
necessary,  without  the  aid  of  "Walker's  Division  of  Texans. 

General  Kirby  Smith's  headquarters  were  within  a  few  miles 
of  our  camp.  After  our  arrival  at  this  camp,  we  learned  more 
fully  the  strength  of  our  forces  that  were  opposing  the  enemy, 
their  situation,  etc.  We  discovered,  much  to  our  surprise, 
that  the  enemy  remained  unmolested  in  Camden,  sending  out 
his  cavalry  scouts  all  over  the  country,  and  no  obstacles 
thrown  in  his  way  to  prevent  him  from  joining  his  forces  with 
Banks's  army,  at  Alexandria.  He  was  left  perfectly  unino- 


WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  247 

lested,  to  withdraw  from  Camden  or  to  advance  on  Shreve- 
port  at  leisure.  Until  the  arrival  of  Walker's  Division  no 
effort  was  made  to  check  his  career,  except  the  crossing  of  part 
of  our  cavalry  to  the  east  side  of  the  Ouachita  River. 

It  is  useless  to  deny  the  fact  that,  up  to  the  period  of  the  arri- 
val of  Walker's  Division,  no  campaign  was  ever  worse  conducted. 
As  soon  as  General  Steele  discovered  the  object  of  General 
Kirby  Smith,  he  determined  to  evacuate  Camden  and  fall 
back  to  Little  Eock.  Having  cut  down  a  number  of  wagons, 
as  well  as  throwing  the  greater  part  of  his  artillery  into  the 
river,  he  succeeded  in  crossing  his  troops  to  the  east  side  of 
the  river,  which  feat  he  completed  by  sunrise  on  the  morning 
of  the  27th.  Hearing  of  the  evacuation  of  Camden,  General 
Kirby  Smith  at  once  issued  orders  for  the  troops  to  pursue 
Steele  to  his  fortifications  at  Little  Eock.  On  our  march 
towards  Camden,  we  passed  by  the  headquarters  of  General 
Price,  better  known  as  "  Old  Pap,"  so  called  by  his  troops. 
We  arrived  at  Camden  at  4  o'clock,  P.  M.,  and  received  orders 
to  cook  three  days'  rations.  Singular  to  state,  the  evacuation 
of  Camden  was  not  known  (or,  if  so,  not  acted  on)  in  our 
army  until  o'clock  in  the  morning,  notwithstanding  the 
reports  that  there  was  no  possible  chance  for  Steele's  army  to 
escape.  But  he  gave  our  generals  to  understand  that  he  was 
too  old  a  bird  to  be  caught  with  chaff.  The  fortifications  at 
Camden,  constructed  by  General  Holmes,  and  improved  by 
the  enemy,  were  not  inferior  to  any  in  the  Trans-Mississippi 
Department,  and,  from  the  appearance  of  the  place,  we  should 
have  had  some  difficulty  in  taking  it,  if  the  enemy  had  not 
left. 

Being  without  a  pontoon-train  of  any  kind,  it  was  neces- 
sarily a  slow  and  difficult  undertaking  to  cross  our  infantry. 

On  the  morning  of  the  28th  we  commenced  crossing  the 
Ouachita  Eiver,  on  a  hastily-constructed  floating  bridge  of 
plank.  No  transportation  was  allowed  us.  The  troops  car- 
ried their  own  rations  and  ammunition.  After  getting  across 
the  river,  we  continued  our  line  of  march  in  pursuit  of  the 
flying  foe,  satisfied  that  Walker's  Greyhounds  would  overtake 


248  WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 

the  enemy  before  they  got  to  Little  Rock,  notwithstanding 
they  had  about  thirty  hours  start  of  us.  Our  cavalry  having 
crossed  the  river,  they  took  their  position  in  advance.  No 
one  doubted  but  that  the  flight  of  the  enemy  would  soon  be 
checked.  After  marching  fourteen  miles,  we  camped  for  the 
night, 

April  29th.  Left  camp  at  3  o'clock,  A.  M.  On  we  traveled, 
mile  after  mile,  with  no  sign  of  the  enemy,  other  than  the 
blackened  ruins  which  marked  his  path.  Passed  through  the 
town  of  Princeton,  and  encamped  on  a  creek  two  miles  be- 
yond, after  marching  twenty  miles.  During  the  night  it  com- 
menced to  rain,  and  partly  overflowed  our  camp. 

April  30th.  Continued  our  march  at  3  A.  M.  On  our  arrival 
at  the  town  of  Tulip,  we  were  informed  that  the  rear-guard  of 
the  enemy  had  passed  scarce  two  hours  before.  All  then  be- 
came wild  with  excitement.  The  troops,  although  broken  down 
with  fatigue,  became  fired  with  new  life  and  energy,  and  re- 
doubled their  efforts  to  overhaul  the  flying  foe.  The  passage 
through  the  town  of  Tulip  will  long  be  remembered  by  the 
troops  of  our  division.  Raining  as  it  did,  the  ladies  rushed  to 
the  roadside,  and  with  wild  enthusiasm  cheered  us  on  to  the 
coming  struggle.  On  account  of  the  severity  of  the  march,  the 
troops  were  in  a  wretched  condition.  I  do  not  exaggerate  in 
stating  that  scarcely  half  the  effective  force  was  in  position. 
Between  the  hours  of  6  and  7  o'clock,  we  heard  the  echo  of 
cannon  in  advance ;  the  skirmishers  had  commenced.  At  8 
o'clock,  the  rain  ceased.  Shortly  afterwards  we  arrived  at  the 
enemy's  camp  of  last  night,  and  saw  all  around  evidence  of  the 
morning's  skirmish — trees  cut  half  in  two  by  cannon  balls ; 
limbs  of  trees  torn  off  and  lying  in  the  road ;  fences  down  and 
scattered  in  endless  confusion ;  old  clothes  and  all  the  para- 
phernalia of  a  soldier  lying  in  all  directions ;  houses  riddled 
with  cannon  and  musket  balls ;  negro-quarters  and  meat- 
houses  broken  open  and  rifled  of  their  contents ; — in  a  word, 
a  general  desolation  prevailing  everywhere.  Onward  we  push, 
striving  with  every  nerve  to  do  or  die  in  our  undertaking. 


WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  249 


CHAPTER  XXX. 

THE  BATTLE  OF  JENKINS'S  FERKY. 

"  No  gorgeous  banners  we  unfold, 
Of  crimson  silk  and  yellow  gold  ; 
No  waving  plumes,  nor  helmets  bright, 
Nor  chargers  prancing  for  the  fight ; 
But  men  as  true,  and  hearts  as  bold, 
As  e'er  a  life  for  freedom  sold 
At  Leuctra,  or  Thermopylae, 
We  bring  into  the  field  to-day, 
To  chase  the  weir-wolf  from  his  lair, 
Or,  failing,  sleep  forever  there." 

BOUT  the  hour  of  12  o'clock,  M.,  on  the  30th  of 
April,  the  rattling  of  musketry  gave  us  to  under- 
stand that  at  last  we  had  overtaken  the  enemy* 
rather  unexpectedly.  They  were  in  the  act  of  crossing  the 
Saline  River,  at  a  point  known  as  Jenkins's  Ferry,  distant 
from  the  town  of  Camden  about  55  miles.  As  soon  as  the 
Federal  General  Steele  discovered  that  an  engagement  was 
inevitable,  he  recrossed  such  of  his  troops  as  had  already 
crossed,  and  formed  his  line  of  battle  in  the  form  of  a  crescent 
around  his  pontoon  bridge.  His  position  was  a  strong  one, 
and  further  strengthened  by  such  logs  as  they  could  conven- 
iently get  at.  The  location  was  in  a  thickly-timbered  bottom, 
and  the  ground  was  covered  with  water,  from  ankle  to  knee 
deep,  precluding  the  possibility  of  using  artillery. 

On  arriving  within  about  two  miles  of  Jenkins's  Ferry, 
Walker's  Division  filed  off  to  the  right,  taking  a  road  that 
apparently  had  not  been  used  for  years.  At  this  place  we 
beheld  our  favorite  leader,  General  Walker,  mounted  on  his 
iron-gray  war-horse,  awaiting  to  address  a  few  remarks  of 
encouragement  to  each  regiment  as  they  passed  him  by.  His 


250  WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 

presence  alone  on  this  occasion  was  enough  to  inspire  his 
troops  with  the  highest  patriotism  and  love  for  their  old 
chieftain ;  cheer  after  cheer  was  freely  given  him,  as  they 
passed  by  him.  They  had  implicit  confidence  in  his  judg- 
ment, and  that  he  would  not  tolerate  any  useless  sacrifice  of 
life  in  the  forthcoming  battle.  The  greatest  vivacity  and 
enthusiasm  prevailed  throughout  the  whole  division.  Already 
a  rattling  fire  of  musketry  was  heard  in  our  front,  plainly 
indicating  that  General  Price's  command  was  in  action.  At 
first  a  few  scattering  shots  were  heard ;  quickly,  volleys  of 
platoons  succeeded,  and  soon  the  fire  extended  and  increased, 
until  the  rolling  reports  of  long  lines  of  musketry  could  be 
distinctly  recognized.  General  Kirby  Smith  notified  General 
Walker  that  the  Arkansas  and  Missouri  troops  were  at  it,  hot 
and  heavy,  and  to  press  on  the  Texans,  to  support  them.  The 
Texans  moved  forward  with  alacrity,  rushing  headlong  into 
action.  The  3d  Brigade  of  the  Division,  commanded  by 
General  Scurry,  dashed  up  gallantly  on  the  right,  using  their 
muskets  quite  soldierly,  and,  in  the  language  of  General 
Walker,  sustained  the  fight,  without  assistance,  against  7,000 
of  the  enemy,  for  forty  minutes. 

The  2d  Brigade,  commanded  by  General  Waul,  went  into 
action  on  their  arrival,  like  old  veterans. 

The  1st  Brigade,  commanded  by  General  Randall,  was  ably 
led  by  that  distinguished  officer  into  action.  He  seemed 
ubiquitous  as  he  screamed  his  orders  here  and  there,  always 
urging  his  men  on  the  foe.  An  incessant  roar  of  musketry 
prevailed  for  about  six  hours.  During  this  time  the  tide  of 
battle  ebbed  and  flowed — now  advancing,  then  receding  ;  but 
at  no  time  did  the  ground  fought  over  vary  more  than  two 
hundred  and  fifty  yards.  Owing  to  the  dense  fog  and  the 
dense  clouds  of  smoke  which  hung  in  the  thick  woods,  many 
times,  opposing  lines  could  only  be  discovered  by  the  flash  of 
their  muskets.  The  firing  on  both  sides  grew  more  terrific 
every  moment ;  even  the  elements  were  terribly  convulsed. 
They  seemed  to  groan  with  the  heavy  burden  of  storms  which 
had  been  gathered  from  the  hemispheres,  to  pour  upon  the 


WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  251 

heads  of  God's  erring  children  the  vial  of  wrath,  as  an 
admonition  to  both  armies  to  stay  their  bloody  hands.  But 
we  continued  fighting,  irrespective  of  the  storm.  In  the  midst 
of  the  battle,  our  gallant  general  (General  Walker)  could  be 
seen  galloping  along  the  lines,  cheering  his  men  forward. 
He  was  accompanied  by  his  chief  of  staff,  Major  McClay. 

General  Kirby  Smith  likewise  was  indefatigable,  riding  from 
line  to  line,  cheering  on  the  men.  Seeing  some  of  the  Arkan- 
sas troops  falling  back,  he  rallied  them  by  dismounting  from 
his  horse,  and,  taking  a  gun  from  one  of  the  soldiers,  he  took 
his  place  in  the  ranks  as  a  private.  The  troops,  seeing  him  thus 
exposing  his  life,  rallied  to  his  support,  and  kept  in  line  until 
the  close  of  the  battle.  To  see  the  commanding  general  of  the 
Trans-Mississippi  Department,  wielding  the  destinies  of  a 
great  fight,  with  its  cares  and  responsibilities  upon  his  shoul- 
ders, performing  the  duty  of  a  private  soldier,  in  the  thickest 
of  the  conflict,  is  a  picture  worthy  of  the  pencil  of  an 
artist. 

About  4  o'clock  P.M.  the  enemy  endeavored  to  turn  our 
right  flank,  by  extending  their  lines,  which  they  were  able  to 
do  by  reason  of  their  great  numbers.  This  was  unfortunate 
for  us,  as  it  required  a  corresponding  extension  of  our  lines,  to 
prevent  their  extreme  left  from  outflanking  us — a  movement, 
on  our  part,  which  weakened  the  force  of  resistance  along  our 
whole  line  of  battle,  which  finally  extended  over  a  space  of 
three  miles.  It  also  rendered  it  the  mpre  difficult  to  reinforce 
the  left  of  our  army,  as  the  further  the  enemy  extended  his  left, 
the  greater  the  distance  our  forces  had  to  travel  over  the 
impenetrable  swamp,  covered  with  briers,  brambles,  and  water  ; 
and  all  without  the  least  knowledge  of  our  locality,  which 
proved  insurmountable  barriers  to  our  success.  There  was  no 
time  to  be  lost  to  counteract  the  enemy's  movement.  The 
enemy  made  every  possible  effort  to  turn  our  flank,  for  one 
long  weary  hour,  during  which  time  the  tide  of  battle  ebbed 
and  flowed  along  the  entire  line  with  alternate  fortunes.  The 
enemy's  column  continued  to  stretch  away  to  the  left,  like  a 
huge  anaconda,  seeking  to  envelop  us  within  its  mighty  folds, 


252  WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 

and  crush  us  to  death  ;  and  at  one  time  it  really  looked  as  if 
they  would  succeed. 

The  moment  General  Walker  discovered  the  enemy's  order 
of  battle,  he  dispatched  orders  to  General  Kirby  Smith  for 
reinforcements,  to  turn  the  enemy's  flank.  In  the  mean  time, 
General  "Walker  was  on  the  alert  in  watching  the  enemy's 
programme.  Notwithstanding  all  of  his  generals  had  been 
wounded,  he  was  still  confident  that  the  battle  would  end  in 
our  favor.  He  advanced  his  division  in  an  oblique  direction, 
continuing  to  keep  up  a  heavy  firing  on  the  enemy,  expect- 
ing every  moment  reinforcements  ;  but,  alas  !  the  reinforce- 
ments came  too  late.  Had  General  Walker  received  rein- 
forcements when  he  asked  for  them,  he  would  have  destroyed 
the  enemy,  and  perhaps  have  captured  their  entire  army. 
Attacked  in  front,  on  the  flank,  and  in  the  rear,  they  could 
not  possibly  have  escaped  ;  and  if  they  did  escape,  it  would  be 
with  the  loss  of  thousands  of  prisoners,  and  all  his  artillery 
and  wagons,  while  the  field  would  have  been  strewed  with 
his  dead.  A  few  minutes  before  the  battle  was  over,  Parsons's 
Division  of  Missourians,  reached  our  right.  They  dashed  on 
the  enemy's  flanks  with  loud  shouts,  and  in  the  most  gallant 
style.  Meanwhile,  General  Price  rallied  the  left  for  the  final 
struggle.  General  Kirby  Smith  kept  the  center  well  up, 
while  Walker's  Division  dashed  into  the  fight  with  a  shout  that 
seemed  to  shake  the  very  earth.  The  result  of  this  maneuver 
drove  the  enemy  back ;  they  commenced  to  retreat,  first  in 
good  order,  and  finally  in  much  confusion.  The  Federal 
troops  fought  well,  and  were  handled  in  a  masterly  manner, 
until  they  were  about  to  be  flanked. 

Before  crossing  the  river,  the  enemy  destroyed  everything 
in  the  shape  of  transportation.  They  threw  their  artillery 
and  wagons  into  the  Saline  River,  and  left  their  dead  and 
wounded  on  the  field.  Having  crossed  the  river,  they 
destroyed  their  pontoon  bridge,  rendering  further  pursuit  on 
our  part  impossible.  Our  troops  having  exhausted  almost 
the  last  cartridge,  they  were  unable  to  reap  much  advantage, 
except  the  glory  of  the  battle-field. 


WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  253 

A  few  minutes  after  the  battle  was  over,  General  Fagan's 
Cavalry  Corps,  composed  of  Arkansians  and  Missourians, 
arrived  on  the  battle-field.  They  had  come  from  the  neigh- 
borhood of  Benton,  distant  about  thirty  miles  from  Jenkins's 
Ferry.  They  had  anticipated  meeting  the  enemy  at  or  near 
Benton,  but  hearing  the  sound  of  cannon,  and  believing  that 
the  battle  had  taken  place,  they  rode  in  a  gallop  the  entire 
distance,  in  order  to  have  the  pleasure  of  participating  with 
us  in  whipping  the  foe.  On  their  arrival,  many  of  their 
officers  beseeched  General  Kirby  Smith  to  allow  their  com- 
mands to  swim  the  river  in  pursuit  of  Steele's  army.  General 
Smith  believed  that  the  risk  the  cavalry  would  have  to  un- 
dergo in  swimming  the  river,  without  the  infantry  being  able 
to  cross,  was  too  great.  As  it  was,  he  was  satisfied  with  the 
laurels  he  had  already  won ;  consequently  he  allowed  Steele's 
army  to  return  to  Little  Bock,  his  base  of  operations,  unmo- 
lested. 

General  Steele's  loss  was  very  severe.  But  a  few  months 
previous,  he  marched  proudly  from  Little  Bock  towards 
Shreveport,  with  20,000  men,  1,000  wagons,  and  30  pieces  of 
artillery.  He  returned,  having  lost  800  wagons,  16  pieces  of 
artillery,  and  12,000  men,  demoralized  and  burdened  with  his 
sick. 

Our  loss  was  very  severe.  "We  numbered  amongst  our  dead 
some  of  the  most  gallant  men  of  the  division.  Generals 
Scurry  and  Bandall  died  a  few  days  after  the  battle. 

"  Hope  for  a  season  bade  the  world  farewell, 
And  freedom  shrieked  when  Scurry  and  Randall  fell." 

The  loss  in  the  Missouri  and  Arkansas  Divisions  was 
equally  severe,  and  many  a  true  heart,  which  in  the  morning 
beat  with  high  hope,  at  night  lay  cold  in  death. 

Having  alluded  to  General  Fagan's  Corps  of  Cavalry,  it  is 
proper  to  give  some  account  of  them.  Much  blame  was  at- 
tached to  General  Fagan,  in  failing  to  check  the  enemy's 
march  before  they  got  to  the  Saline  Biver.  Many  hard  things 


254  WALKEB'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 

were  said  about  him.  Amongst  the  various  rumors  I  heard, 
and  which  seems  probable,  was,  that  the  enemy  had  suc- 
ceeded in  arresting  one  of  General  Price's  couriers,  carrying 
a  dispatch  from  General  Price  to  General  Fagan,  informing 
General  Fagan  of  the  evacuation  of  Camden  by  the  enemy, 
and  that  the  enemy  would  probably  cross  the  Saline  Eiver, 
near  the  town  of  Benton.  General  Steele,  upon  reading  Gen- 
eral Price's  dispatch,  at  once  had  one  of  his  own  couriers 
dressed  in  the  captured  courier's  clothes,  and  sent  a  dispatch 
to  General  Fagan,  signing  General  Price's  name,  for  him  to 
hold  the  crossing  of  the  Saline  Ttiver,  near  Benton,  at  all 
hazards,  until  his  infantry  arrived. 

But  admitting  the  above  rumor  to  be  false,  it  appears  mys- 
terious to  the  mind  of  any  sane  person,  that  General  Fagan 
failed  to  leave  scouts  behind  him,  to  watch  the  movements  of 
the  enemy,  instead  of  leaving  a  vacancy  of  some  thirty  miles 
between  his  forces  and  those  of  the  enemy,  without  even  a 
solitary  picket  to  inform  him  of  the  whereabouts  of  the 
enemy.  Most  singular  to  relate,  General  Fagan's  command 
encamped  at  Jenkins's  Ferry  the  night  previous  to  the  battle, 
and  took  up  their  march  from  there  at  two  o'clock  in  the 
morning,  the  very  day  of  the  battle.  It  was  an  unfortunate 
occurrence,  and  can  only  be  excused  on  the  ground  that 
General  Fagan,  being  in  front,  was  necessarily  cut  off  from 
the  commanding  general,  and  was  consequently  without  cor- 
rect information. 

Soon  after  the  battle  ended,  a  detail  of  men  were  employed 
in  burying  the  dead.  Armed  with  shovel,  pickaxe,  and  spade, 
they  proceeded  along  the  battle-ground  to  complete  this 
mournful  task,  which  the  enemy  were  unable  to  accomplish. 
The  ground  was  thickly  strewn  with  the  ghastly  and  mangled 
forms.  The  effluvium  from  the  swollen,  festering  forms  was 
too  horrible  for  human  endurance.  No  conception  of  the 
imagination,  no  power  of  human  language,  could  do  justice  to 
such  a  horrible  scene. 

Faint  rays  of  the  sinking  sun  now  peered  through  broken 
clouds  upon  the  blood-stained  waters  of  the  Saline.  Our 


WALKEB'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  255 

camp-ground  was  selected  about  two  miles  from  the  battle- 
ground. Shortly  after  our  arrival  in  camp,  rations  were 
issued  to  us  from  the  commissary,  consisting  of  two  ounces  of 
bacon  and  one  ear  of  corn  to  each  man,  with  which  we  had  to 
be  satisfied,  as  there  was  nothing  else  to  be  had  to  satisfy  our 
appetites.  The  following  morning  found  us  wet  and  cold, 
hungry  and  broken  down  in  spirits.  About  eight  o'clock  the 
rain  ceased,  for  the  first  time  in  three  days  ;  the  sun  came  out 
in  all  its  glory,  and  one  of  the  most  bright  and  lovely  of  sum- 
mer days  smiled  upon  Jenkins's  Ferry.  The  skies  ceased  to 
weep,  and  the  veil  of  clouds  was  withdrawn,  as  if  God  would 
allow  the  angels  to  look  down  and  witness  this  awful  spectacle 
of  man's  inhumanity  to  man. 

Rambling  over  the  battle-field  and  witnessing  the  newly- 
dug  graves,  surrounded  by  water,  I  felt  like  calling  to  memory 
the  dying  words  of  our  Revolutionary  heroes,  and  applying 
them  to  those  gallant  heroes  before  me,  who  sleep  the  sleep 
that  knoweth  no  waking.  "  If  you  are  victorious,  and  our 
country  emerges  free  and  independent  from  the  contest  in 
which  she  is  now  engaged,  but  the  end  of  which  we  are  not 
permitted  to  see,  bury  us  in  our  beloved  State,  and  engrave 
our  names  on  the  monument  you  shall  erect  over  us,  as 
victims  who  willingly  surrendered  their  lives  as  a  portion  of 
the  price  paid  for  your  liberties;  and  our  departed  spirits  will 
never  murmur,  nor  regret  the  sacrifices  we  made  to  obtain  for 
you  the  blessing  we  hope  you  may  enjoy." 


256  WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 


CHAPTEE  XXXI. 

THE  BURIAL  OF  GENERALS  SCURRY  AND  RANDALL. 

"  For  oh,  how  grand  they  sink  to  rest, 
Who  close  their  eyes  on  victory's  breast." 

the  morning  of  May  1st,  we  heard  the  melancholy 
news  of  the  death  of  General  Scurry ;  he  died  during 
the  night.  His  remains  were  escorted  by  the  entire 
division  to  the  town  of  Tulip,  distant  about  eight  miles.  He 
was  buried  the  following  day  with  military  honors.  Generals 
Smith,  Price,  "Walker,  Churchill,  Parsons,  Hawthorne,  and 
Tappan,  were  present.  On  our  return  to  camp  after  the 
burial  of  General  Scurry,  we  learned  that  the  gallant  General 
Randall  had  breathed  his  last,  having  expired  an  hour  after 
the  burial  of  his  comrade-in-arms ;  he  was  buried  the  follow- 
ing day,  with  military  honors. 

The  following  beautiful  obituary  notice,  written  by  Captain 
W.  G.  Weaver  (of  the  16th  Dismounted  Cavalry)  in  memo- 
riam  of  the  death  of  General  Scurry,  is  very  appropriate, 
and,  without  his  permission,  I  take  the  liberty  of  applying  it 
to  both  Generals  Scurry  and  Randall : 

u  '  Our  leaders  have  fallen ! '  Brigadier-Generals  William 
R.  Scurry  and  Horace  Randall  are  dead.  They  fell  on  the 
field  of  battle,  in  the  arms  of  victory,  the  place  where  heroes 
died.  But  oh!  the  price  of  victory!  The  precious  offering 
of  noble,  generous,  and  heroic  heart' s-blood  has  brought 
mourning  to  their  conquering  brigades.  How  difficult  it  is 
to  realize  that  they  are  numbered  with  the  heroic  dead  of 
the  world's  grand  revolutions,  the  illustrious  hosts  of  Free- 
dom's martyrs! 


257 

"  But  a  few  days  since  we  saw  their  bold  forms  towering 
above  the  lines  of  battle.  At  Mansfield  and  Pleasant  Hill 
we  heard  their  words  of  gallant  cheer  to  the  soldiers  who 
loved  them.  We  saw  them  fearlessly  lead  the  desperate 
charge  which  wreathed  our  banners  with  victory's  laurels. 
At  Pleasant  Hill,  in  the  face  of  the  foe,  ten  times  our  strength 
in  number,  a  hundred  times  in  position,  they  led  their  deci- 
mated brigades  through  torrents  of  grape,  hurricanes  of  shells, 
and  showers  of  bullets ;  and  though  they  saw  destruction 
before  them,  still  their  calm  and  open  faces  wore  the  same 
undaunted  look,  and  their  old,  familiar  smiles  played  there  as 
sweetly  as  in  moments  of  hilarity  around  the  camp-fire. 

'  Cannon  to  the  right  of  them, 
Cannon  in  front  of  them, 
Cannon  to  the  left  of  them, 
Volleyed  and  thundered/ 

Still  those  clear,  sonorous  tones  rang  through  the  forest : 
*  Charge  them,  boys ! '  but  these  words  will  never  ring  along 
the  line  of  battle  again ;  no  more  will  they  sound  at  the 
head  of  their  columns.  They  are  gone  to  the  warrior's  grave, 
the  soldier's  rest !  and  for  nobility,  kindness,  and  sin- 
cerity of  heart,  for  unfaltering  courage,  constant  moderation 
as  commanders,  unvarying  patience,  unalloyed  cheerfulness, 
and  genial  humor,  there  live  not  their  superiors,  but  their 
names  will  still  be  the  soldier's  watchword,  glory's  legacy, 
our  country's  honor.  The  dying  words  of  these  noble  heroes 
were,  that  they  were  content  to  die,  since  they  received  their 
death-wounds  while  doing  their  duty  on  the  battle-field. 
Could  the  devotion  of  their  brigades,  the  confidence  and 
respect  of  their  superior  officers,  and  the  kindness  of  friends 
have  saved  them,  they  would  not  have  died. 

'  The  path  of  glory  leads  but  to  the  grave.' 

Over  their  coffins  let  .us  alternately  strew  clusters  of  myrtle 
and  cypress— emblems  in  life  of  delight ;  garlands  of  affec- 
tion in  death." 
17 


258  WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 

"  Multiplied  words  can  add  nothing  to  their  fame.  It  is 
eternal  as  the  granite  hills.  Their  bodies  moulder  in  soldiers' 
graves.  The  emerald  sward,  and,  doubtless,  sweet  flowers 
planted  there  by  living  hands,  cover  their  honored  remains. 
Of  all  the  martyrs'  graves  that  dot  the  southern  hillsides  and 
valleys,  none  contain  the  remains  of  nobler  souls  and  more 
fearless  and  chivalric  spirits,  more  efficient  commanders,  more 
idolized  chieftains,  than  those  which  hold  the  mortal  remains 
of  Generals  Scurry  and  Bandall."* 

*  Private  soldier's  remarks. 


259 


OHAPTEE  XXXII. 

RETURN  TO  CAMDEN.— GENERAL  KIRBY  SMITH'S  ADDRESS  TO  THE  SOLDIERS 
OF  THE  TRANS-MISSISSIPPI  DEPARTMENT. — EN  ROUTE  FOR  ALEXANDRIA. 
— PROMOTIONS. — GENERAL  TAYLOR'S  ADDRESS  TO  THE  CAVALRY  AND 
POLIGNAC  DIVISION. — CAMP  NEAR  ALEXANDRIA. 


N  the  morning  of  May  3d,  the  whole  army  was  ordered 
back  to  Camden.  This  place,  for  the  present,  was 
to  be  our  base-line  of  defense,  in  consequence  of  the 
difficulty  of  obtaining  supplies  east  of  the  Ouachita  Kiver. 
After  marching  twelve  miles  we  arrived  at  the  same  camp- 
ground we  left  on  the  morning  of  the  30th  of  April. 

The-sick  list  of  the  division  was  very  large,  owing  to  the 
result  of  late  hardships.  Comfortable  hospitals  were  provided 
for  our  sick  and  wounded  at  Camden.  The  patriotic  ladies  of 
Camden  were  untiring  in  their  endeavors  to  ameliorate  the 
sufferings  of  the  brave  soldiers  that  were  brought  to  their  city. 

At  dress-parade,  in  the  evening,  the  following  congratulatory 
address  of  General  Kirby  Smith  was  read  to  us  : 

"  SOLDIERS  OF  THE  TRANS-MISSISSIPPI  DEPARTMENT  :  The  cam- 
paign inaugurated  at  Mansfield,  on  the  day  of  national  fast 
and  supplication,  has,  under  Providence,  been  crowned  with 
most  glorious  and  brilliant  success.  You  have  defeated  a  foe 
three  times  your  own  number.  The  fields  of  Mansfield,  Pleas- 
ant Hill,  Cloutierville,  Poison  Springs,  Marks's  Mills,  and  Jen- 
kins's Ferry,  attest  your  devotion.  8,000  killed  and  wounded, 
6,000  prisoners,  34  pieces  of  artillery,  1,200  wagons,  one  gun- 
boat, and  three  transports,  are  already  the  fruits  of  your  vic- 
tories. The  path  of  glory  is  still  open  to  you.  Permanent 
security  to  your  homes  is  before  you.  Call  together  your  com- 
rades, and,  shoulder  to  shoulder,  we  will  yet  free  the  soil  of 


260 

our  beloved  country  from  the  invaders'  footsteps.  Soldiers  of 
Arkansas,  Missouri,  Texas,  and  Louisiana !  you  have  the 
thanks  of  a  grateful  people.  Your  living  will  be  respected, 
and  your  dead  honored  and  revered.  While  in  the  midst  of 
our  victory  we  are  called  upon  to  mourn  the  heroic  dead. 
Generals  W.  E.  Scurry  and  Horace  Eandall  have  fallen  upon 
the  field  of  honor.  At  Jenkins's  Ferry  they  offered  themselves 
up  precious  victims  on  the  altar  of  liberty.  Mouton  and 
Green  are  gone !  Scurry  and  Eandall  have  followed  on  the 
same  glorious  path.  Be  it  ours  to  emulate  their  virtues  and 
valor,  and  to  act  as  men  not  unworthy  to  associate  with  such 
heroes.  The  colors  of  their  respective  brigades  will  be 
draped  in  mourning  for  thirty  days." 

On  the  morning  of  the  4th  we  left  camp  at  sunrise.  A  long, 
weary  march  of  seventeen  miles  brought  us  to  camp,  worn 
out  and  exhausted. 

May  5th.  Marched  seventeen  miles,  over  a  new  road  that  our 
pioneers  made,  and  camped  within  three  miles  of  Camden. 
Owing  to  the  continued  rains,  the  streams  were  very  much 
swollen,  and  often  we  waded  the  mud  knee-deep.  Eoads  were 
repaired,  and  bridges  built.  Then  we  were  water-bound.  It 
seemed  as  if  all  the  tortures  and  sufferings  of  years  were  be- 
ing poured  upon  us  from  one  huge  vial  of  wrath.  We  re- 
mained at  this  camp  until  the  morning  of  the  8th.  The  night 
previous,  orders  were  received  from  General  Kirby  Smith  for 
General  Walker  to  move  his  division  in  the  direction  of 
Campti,  on  Eed  Eiver,  or  to  any  other  convenient  point  that 
General  Taylor  might  select. 

On  the  morning  of  the  8th,  the  entire  division  was  ready 
for  marching.  About  9  o'clock,  A.  M.,  we  commenced  crossing 
the  Ouachita  Eiver,  at  the  Lone-Pine  Ferry,  situated  about 
a  mile  north  of  Camden.  After  all  the  troops  had  crossed 
we  continued  our  march,  passing  through  Camden,  and  struck 
camp  about  a  mile  from  Camden,  on  the  Shreveport  road. 
During  the  evening  we  learned  that  the  orders  issued  for  the 
division  to  march  to  Campti  were  countermanded ;  the  town 
of  Alexandria  was  selected  as  the  place  we  were  to  march  to. 


WALKEB'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  261 

On  the  morning  of  the  9th  we  left  camp  at  daylight,  for 
Alexandria,  to  which  place  Banks's  army  had  retreated  after 
the  battle  of  Pleasant  Hill,  in  order  to  be  under  the  protection 
of  their  gun-boats.  On  their  retreat  from  Pleasant  Hill  they 
were  hotly  pursued  by  Green's  Cavalry,  under  the  command 
of  General  "Wharton,  and  Polignac's  Division  of  Infantry.  We 
arrived  in  camp  late  in  the  evening,  after  marching  fifteen 
miles.  Shortly  after  our  arrival,  the  Arkansas  and  Missouri 
Divisions  arrived  and  camped  alongside  of  us. 

May  10th.  Marched  sixteen  miles.  A  heavy  shower  of  rain 
commenced  pouring  down  upon  us,  completely  saturating  us. 
On  we  marched  through  the  silent  and  gloomy  pine  woods, 
entertaining  each  other  with  jokes,  and  all  manner  of  witty 
fusilades. 

May  llth.  Marched  twenty  miles ;  crossed  the  State-line 
dividing  Arkansas  from  Louisiana.  Shortly  after  arriving  in 
camp  it  ceased  raining. 

May  12th.  Marched  sixteen  miles.  At  this  camp  Colonel  K. 
Waterhouse,  of  the  19th  Infantry,  and  Major  R.  P.  McClay, 
of  General  "Walker's  staff,  were  promoted  to  Brigadier-Gen- 
erals, by  order  of  General  Kirby  Smith.  A  few  weeks  after- 
wards, Colonel  King,  of  the  18th  Kegiment,  was  promoted 
Brigadier  General,  on  the  resignation  of  General  Waul. 

General  McClay  was  assigned  to  the  command  of  the  1st 
Brigade ;  General  King  was  assigned  to  the  command  of  the 
2d  Brigade,  and  General  Waterhouse  was  assigned  to  the 
command  of  the  3d  Brigade. 

On  the  13th  we  marched  seventeen  miles,  passing  through 
the  towns  of  Homer  and  Athens. 

May  14th.  Marched  twenty-one  miles.  Passed  through  the 
town  of  Mount  Lebanon.  At  this  town  was  established  one  of 
the  best  hospitals  in  the  Trans-Mississippi  Department,  in 
charge  of  Doctor  Powell,  one  of  the  most  scientific  doctors 
south  of  Mason  and  Dixon's  line.  Many  of  the  Texas  troops 
were  under  his  kind  treatment.  The  troops  marched  through 
the  town  by  companies,  in  columns,  presenting  a  handsome 
appearance.  The  sidewalks  were  filled  with  ladies,  and  many 


262  WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 

highly  palatable  gifts  were  distributed  by  them  to  the  soldiers. 
After  our  arrival  in  camp  it  commenced  to  rain,  pouring  down 
in  torrents.  During  the  night  a  courier  arrived  in  camp,  with 
dispatches  for  General  Walker,  from  General  Taylor,  urging 
General  Walker  to  hasten  his  division  forward  to  Alexandria. 
He  reported  that  the  enemy  was  still  in  possession  of  Alex- 
andria, making  every  exertion  to  get  their  fleet  over  the  falls, 
and  if  our  division  could  possibly  get  opposite  the  town,  with 
the  assistance  of  artillery  we  would  be  able  to  destroy  their 
fleet. 

On  the  15th  we  marched  fifteen  miles.  The  Arkansas  and 
Missouri  troops  were  ordered  back  to  Camden. 

May  16th.  Marched  twenty-one  miles.  Our  march  to-day  was 
severe  on  the  men1  as  well  as  on  the  teams.  A  company  of 
men  from  each  regiment  was  detailed  to  accompany  the 
wagon-train,  to  help  them  out  when  they  became  stuck  in  the 
mud.  Heard  that  the  enemy  was  engaged  in  fortifying  Alex- 
andria. 

May  17th.  At  an  early  hour  we  were  again  in  motion.  Af- 
ter marching  twenty  miles  we  bivouacked  for  the  night.  No 
further  news  from  Alexandria. 

May  18th.  Marched  eleven  miles.  The  march  to-day  was 
truly  a  pleasant  change  from  our  previous  tedious  marches. 
The  scenery  on  either  side  of  the  route  was  magnificent,  and 
doubly  recompensed  a  lover  of  nature  for  any  annoyances 
occasioned  by  the  trip. 

May  19th.  Marched  eighteen  miles.  After  our  arrival  in  camp, 
General  Walker  was  notified  by  General  Taylor  that  the  ene- 
my had  evacuated  Alexandria,  leaving  it  a  mass  of  ruins.  He 
also  informed  General  Walker  that  the  troops  of  our  division 
that  had  been  captured  at  Pleasant  Hill  had  been  exchanged, 
and  were  doing  guard-duty  at  Natchitoches.  This  was  glad 
tidings  to  their  old  comrades  in  arms. 

May  20th.  Marched  fifteen  miles,  and  camped  near  a  running 
creek.  Many  of  the  troops  enjoyed  themselves,  after  their 
long  and  tedious  marches,  by  swimming  and  bathing  in  the 
limpid  waters.  At  this  camp  the  following  address  was 


WALKEB'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  263 

read  to  the  troops,  on  dress-parade,  by  order  of  General 
Taylor : 

"The  Major-General  commanding  desires  to  express  to 
Major-General  Wharton,  commanding  Cavalry  Corps,  and 
Major-Greneral  Polignac,  commanding  2d  Infantry  Division, 
and  the  officers  and  men  of  their  commands,  his  high  appre- 
ciation of  their  gallantry  and  conduct  displayed  in  the  action 
of  the  16th  and  18th  instant,  at  Mansura  and  Norwood,  At 
Mansura  the  enemy's  whole  army  was  kept  back  for  five  hours, 
his  charges  repulsed,  and,  at  the  proper  time,  our  forces  were 
withdrawn  from  his  front  to  be  thrown  upon  his  flank  and 
rear. 

"  At  Norwood,  a  superior  force  of  fresh  troops  was  beaten 
after  a  stubborn  resistance,  and  driven  from  the  field,  leaving 
their  dead  in  our  hands.  Here  fell  Colonel  Stone,  command- 
ing 2d  Brigade,  Polignac's  Division,  whose  gallantry  at  Mans- 
field and  Pleasant  Hill  had  endeared  him  to  this  army. 

"  The  skillful  dispositions  made  by  General  "Wharton,  com- 
manding in  the  field,  in  both  these  engagements,  stamped  him 
as  a  soldier  of  high  capacity,  and  equal  to  any  position." 

On  the  21st  we  resumed  our  march,  traveling  through  a 
poor,  piny  section  of  country,  and  arrived  at  camp  after  a 
march  of  fourteen  miles. 

May  22d.  Marched  fourteen  miles,  and  encamped  near  Pine- 
ville,  opposite  Alexandria.  We  remained  at  this  place  until  the 
4th  of  June.  Apparently  to  keep  in  good  walking  trim,  we 
had  to  march  six  miles  every  morning,  in  addition  to  going 
through  the  routine  of  company  and  brigade  drills  every  day. 
The  summer  days  were  hot,  hotter,  hottest,  and  fleeted  rapidly 
away,  while  the  men  employed  the  time  as  best  they  could, 
lying  'neath  the  shadow  of  the  pines,  indulging  in  speculative 
fancies,  yet  interested  spectators  of  the  fierce  struggle  for  su- 
premacy between  the  contending  hosts.  The  gentle  summer 
air  would  swell  into  thunder-toned  voices,  borne  from  the 
mountains  and  valleys,  from  Virginia  and  Georgia,  mingled 
with  the  triumphant  shouts  of  victory.  Aye !  victory,  radiant, 
triumphant,  would  poise,  like  the  incarnation  of  beauty,  upon 


264  WALKEB'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 

the  Southern  banner,  and  point  to  the  obscurity  which  shroud- 
ed the  future,  as  if  it  contained  the  germs  of  white-winged 
peace  and  final  success.  The  rainbow  of  hope,  with  every  tint 
of  its  exquisite  coloring,  would  stand  out  in  bold  relief  against 
the  dark  war-cloud  that  hung  over  the  land,  and  was  fast  sink- 
ing into  the  horizon  of  the  past ;  its  dark  setting  rendering  all 
the  more  beautiful  the  soft  hues.  It  seemed  then  as  if  the 
sun  of  peace  was  tinging  with  its  parting  beams  the  jagged 
edges  of  the  storm-cloud,  as  with  a  silver  lining.  Thus  it 
seemed  as  if  the  Southern  hosts  were  striding  forward  towards 
the  goal  of  their  hopes,  the  prize  for  which  they  contended 
so  stubbornly,  and  gave  so  freely  the  priceless  treasure  of 
their  rich,  red  blood. 

Thus,  while  the  men  indulged  in  their  speculations,  they 
were  actually  suffering  both  for  clothing  and  shelter.  Our 
rations  consisted  chiefly  of  corn-meal  and  poor  beef,  and  not 
in  large  quantities.  We  were  without  tents,  and  usually  slept 
on  pine  brush,  in  the  open  air,  protected  from  the  night-dews 
only  by  shelters  of  brush. 


WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  265 


CHAPTEE 


THE  ENEMY'S  RETREAT  FROM  PLEASANT  HILL. — FORTIFYING  AT  GRAND- 
ECORE. — VINDICATION  OF  GENERAL  KIRBY  SMITH. — DESTRUCTION  OF 
TOE  COUNTRY. — CRITICAL  POSITION  OF  THE  ENEMY  AT  ALEXANDRIA. — 
BURNING  OF  ALEXANDRIA. — FIGHTING  AT  YELLOW  BAYOU. 


I UEING  our  march  in  pursuit  of  General  Steele  in  Ar- 
kansas, we  heard  no  particular  details  of  Banks's 
army  in  Louisiana,  until  we  arrived  at  Pineville, 
opposite  Alexandria.  Here  we  learned  that  the  enemy  fell 
back  from  Pleasant  Hill,  towards  Grand-Ecore  on  Eed  Eiver, 
where  they  would  be  under  the  protection  of  their  gun-boats. 
At  this  place  the  enemy  commenced  fortifying,  to  protect  them 
from  an  attack  in  their  rear.  The  prisoners  they  had  cap- 
tured from  us  at  Pleasant  Hill  were  exchanged.  The  enemy 
was  compelled  to  do  so  in  order  to  have  all  their  available 
force  (without  the  extra  charge  of  guarding  prisoners),  in 
order  to  reach  the  Mississippi  Eiver  with  safety.  Much 
blame  was  attached  to  General  Kirby  Smith  in  withdrawing 
the  division  from  Louisiana,  in  order  to  pursue  General  Steele 
in  Arkansas,  before  Banks's  army  was  annihilated  in  Louis- 
iana. For  him  to  act  otherwise  than  rendering  the  same  aid  to 
the  people  of  Arkansas  as  he  did  to  the  people  of  Louisiana, 
would  have  stamped  him  forever  unfit  for  the  office  he  held 
as  Department  Commander.  Taking  the  field  in  person,  he 
displayed  military  skill  in  defeating  two  of  the  best  disci- 
plined armies  of  the  enemy  that  they  had  in  the  field,  in  the 
short  period  of  twenty-two  days. 

Our  cavalry  felt  the  loss  of  their  gallant  commander,  Gen- 
eral Tom  Green,  to  lead  them  on  to  victory,  as  he  had  done 


266  WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 

before  on  many  a  bloody  battle-field.  If  he  had  been  alive, 
the  enemy  never  would  have  crossed  Cane  River,  much  less 
the  double  bridges,  without  they  had  done  so  as  prisoners 
of  war. 

The  enemy,  after  remaining  a  few  days  at  Grand-Ecore, 
behind  their  fortifications,  took  up  their  line  of  march  for 
Alexandria,  distant  about  one  hundred  miles.  Their  entire 
route  could  be  traced  by  the  melancholy  monuments  of  their 
devastating  march ;  it  could  be  distinguished  by  tall  chimneys 
standing  solitary  and  alone,  and  blackened  embers  lying  at 
their  feet  as  it  were.  Every  fine  residence,  every  corn-crib, 
smoke-house,  cotton-gin — all  that  could  give  comfort  to  men — 
were  committed  to  flames.  Dead  animals — horses,  mules, 
cows,  calves,  and  hogs,  slain  by  the  enemy,  were  scattered 
along  the  road. 

After  they  arrived  at  Alexandria,  they  commenced  fortify- 
ing the  town ;  here  they  remained  a  few  days  awaiting  the 
arrival  of  their  fleet,  commanded  by  Admiral  Porter.  His 
fleet  was  above  the  falls,  about  two  miles  above  Alexandria. 
The  fleet  was  in  a  critical  position  above  the  falls,  and  it 
was  generally  believed  that  they  would  have  to  abandon 
it  altogether,  from  the  fact  of  Red  River  falling  so  rapidly, 
while  they  were  loading  their  transports  with  stolen  cotton. 
A  few  days  elapsed  before  they  were  released  from  their 
awkward  position.  The  fleet  succeeded  in  getting  over  the 
falls  in  the  following  manner :  There  was  a  large  sugar-house 
a  short  distance  from  the  falls,  which  they  pulled  down,  and 
out  of  the  materials  made  a  dam  of  some  six  hundred  feet 
across  the  falls,  which  enabled  their  fleet  to  pass.  If  proper 
disposition  had  been  made  of  our  forces,  it  would  have  been 
impossible  for  them  to  have  saved  their  fleet.  On  the  arrival 
of  their  fleet  at  Alexandria,  their  land  forces  prepared  to 
evacuate  the  town,  but  not  before  they  set  fire  to  the  town. 
The  town  was  fired  in  several  places  by  their  negro  troops  ; 
the  flames  soon  burst  forth,  and  the  streets  were  quickly 
crowded  with  helpless  women  and  children.  Agonized 
mothers,  seeking  their  children,  all  affrighted  and  terrified, 


WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  267 

were  rushing  on  all  sides  from  the  raging  flames  and  falling 
houses.  Invalids  had  to  be  dragged  from  their  beds,  and  lay 
exposed  to  the  flames  and  smoke  that  swept  the  streets. 
Drunken  negro  soldiers,  as  well  as  white  ones,  rushing  from 
house  to  house,  emptying  them  of  their  valuables  and  then 
firing  them  ;  contraband  negroes  carrying  off  piles  of  booty, 
and  grinning  at  the  good  chance,  and  exulting,  like  so  many 
demons  ;  officers  and  men  reveling  on  the  wines  and  liquors, 
until  the  burning  houses  buried  them  in  their  drunken 
orgies. 

"  Through  solid  curls  of  smoke  the  bursting  fires 
Cliinb  in  tall  pyramids  above  the  spires, 
Concentrating  all  the  winds,  whose  forces,  driven 
With  equal  rage  from  every  point  of  heaven, 
Wheel  into  conflict,  round  the  scantling  pour 
The  twisting  flames,  and  through  the  rafters  roar  ; 
Suck  up  the  cinders  and  send  them  sailing  far, — 
They  warn  the  country  of  the  raging  war." 


Maddened  in  his  disappointment  to  subdue  the  "  rebels," 
General  Banks  was  determined  to  lay  the  country  waste  for 
revenge.  After  leaving  Alexandria,  he  marched  for  Simms- 
port  on  the  Atchafalaya  Bayou,  closely  pressed  by  our  cavalry 
and  infantry.  At  Yellow  Bayou,  near  Simmsport,  the  enemy 
made  a  final  stand,  but  was  repulsed  again  by  our  forces, 
destroying  the  bridge  over  Yellow  Bayou  to  prevent  further 
pursuit  from  our  troops.  They  crossed  the  Atchafalaya 
Bayou  at  Simmsport,  and  made  a  hasty  march  to  the  mouth  of 
Red  Kiver,  where  transports  were  awaiting  to  convey  them 
to  New  Orleans. 

General  Banks  certainly  must  have  come  to  the  conclusion 
that  the  people  of  Louisiana,  outside  of  New  Orleans,  were 
not  as  loyal  as  he  expected  to  find  them.  They  only  recog- 
nized Governor  H.  AMen  as  the  executive  officer  of  Louisiana. 
Notwithstanding  the  bombastic  proclamation  of  his  military 
satrap,  Mr.  Hahn,  styling  himself  Governor  of  Louisiana,  or- 
dering the  people  of  Louisiana  to  lay  down  their  arms,  and  to 


268  WALKEE'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 

show  no  resistance  to  Banks's  expedition,  an  army  which  had 
advanced  in  all  the  pomp  and  pride  of  war,  was  now  returning 
to  New  Orleans  more  like  a  disorderly  mob  than  an  organ- 
ized army.  Thus  closed  Banks's  second  Red  Eiver  expedi- 
tion. 


WALKEB'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  269 


CHAPTEE  XXXIV. 


HARCH  PROM  PINEVILLE  TO  SNAGGY  POINT. — STORM  IN  CAMP. — GENERAL 
WALKER  LEAVES  THE  DIVISION. — ORGANIZATION  OF  THE  ARTILLERY. 
—MARCH  TO  THE  MISSISSIPPI  RIVER. — GENERAL  WALKER'S  ORDERS 
TO  GENERAL  KING.— PREPARATIONS  TO  CROSS  THE  MISSISSIPPI  RIVER. 
— GENERAL  TAYLOR'S  PLAN  THWARTED. — FAILURE  TO  CROSS  THE  MIS- 
SISSIPPI RIVER. 


the  morning  of  June  4th  we  left  camp,  at  Pine- 
ville,  for  Snaggy  Point,  on  Bed  Eiver.  Marched  twelve 
miles  down  the  east  bank  of  Bed  River,  and  camped. 

June  5th.  Marched  ten  miles,  and  arrived  at  Snaggy  Point. 
Preparations  were  at  once  made  to  cross  the  river  to  the 
west  bank.  A  detail  of  one  hundred  men  were  employed  in 
cutting  down  the  river  bank,  so  that  our  wagons  could  cross. 
After  everything  was  ready,  the  order  was  countermanded. 
We  remained  encamped  at  Snaggy  Point  until  the  morning  of 
the  llth.  On  the  evening  of  the  7th,  a  tremendous  storm  took 
place,  flooding  the  camp  with  water,  which  flowed  in  a  minia- 
ture river  through  its  center,  sweeping  away  tin  pans,  plates, 
etc.  Amid  the  lightning's  vivid  flash,  and  the  deep  roll  of 
thunder,  could  be  heard  the  shouts  of  the  men,  their  exclama- 
tions and  expletives,  as  they  were  literally  drowned  out  of 
their  quarters.  "  Knee  deep  !  "  one  would  shout ;  "  Quarter  less 
twain !  "  came  from  another  direction ;  "  Quack,  quack,  quack !  " 
answered  a  third — thus  displaying  an  indifference  to  their 
inconveniences,  and  commend  ably  endeavoring  to  make  sport 
out  of  each  other's  mishaps.  It  rained  every  day  while  we 
remained  at  this  camp.  The  men  were  lying  in  mud  and 
water,  oblivious  to  all  their  troubles,  curled  up  like  snakes, 
and  actually  making  pillows  of  their  knapsacks. 

On  the  morning  of  the  llth  it  ceased  raining ;  we  moved 


270  WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 

four  miles,  to  a  dryer  camp-ground,  where  we  remained  until 
the  morning  of  the  13th,  when  we  took  up  the  line  of  march, 
back  again,  in  the  direction  of  Pineville.  Marched  ten  miles 
and  struck  camp,  our  wagons  failing  to  arrive  until  late  in  the 
night.  After  eating  supper,  we  lay  down  on  our  blankets,  to 
think  of  our  loved  ones  at  home,  and  when  the  cruel  war 
would  be  over.  On  the  morning  of  the  14th  we  left  camp 
about  9  o'clock.  Marched  fifteen  miles,  leaving  Pineville  to 
the  left.  Reported  in  camp,  that  General  Dick  Taylor  was 
ordered  across  the  Mississippi  River,  to  take  command  of  the 
defenses  of  Mobile. 

June  15th.  Marched  twelve  miles,  through  the  pine  hills. 
The  weather  was  unusually  fine.  We  finally  struck  camp  on 
Bayou  Flaggon,  within  three  miles  of  Holloway's  prairie. 

June  16th.  Marched  seven  miles,  and  encamped  near 
Taylor's  hospital,  about  fifteen  miles  from  Alexandria.  For 
the  last  two  days  we  marched  in  a  semicircular  form,  hunting 
a  good  camp-ground. 

On  the  morning  of  the  17th  we  learned,  much  to  our  sur- 
prise, that  our  favorite  leader,  Gen.  Walker,  was  assigned  to 
the  command  of  the  District  of  Western  Louisiana,  thereby 
relieving  Gen.  Taylor.  About  noontime,  on  the  18th,  General 
Walker  bade  farewell  to  his  "  Old  Division."  Although  he  did 
not  take  each  officer  and  soldier  by  the  hand,  his  counte- 
nance, and  the  countenances  of  his  men,  sufficed  to  express  the 
feeling  he  entertained  for  them  and  they  for  him.  Oftentimeg 
have  we  seen  Gen.  Walker  dash  along  the  road,  followed  by 
his  staff,  when,  meeting  some  soiled  and  uncouth-looking  pri- 
vate, wearily  marching  down  the  road,  he  would  bend  forward 
gracefully  in  his  saddle,  and,  lifting  his  hat  from  his  brow, 
salute  the  soldier  with  all  the  polished  ease  and  elegance  of 
manner  so  indicative  of  the  high-toned  gentleman,  with  a 
soldierly  politeness  worthy  a  superior,  and  not  as  if  the 
object  of  his  deference  and  marked  attention  was  the  private 
soldier  of  his  division.  No  wonder  the  men  loved  him  and 
disliked  to  part  with  him ! 


WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  271 

"  We  had  seen  him  on  the  fierce  field  of  battle, 
Firm  as  the  granite,  while  the  musket's  sharp  rattle, 
The  cannon's  deep  roar,  the  charge  of  the  foes, 
Told  where  thickest  the  fight — where  fiercest  the  blows. 
We  had  seen  him,  on  march,  long,  toilsome,  and  dreary, 
Encourage  the  men,  travel- worn,  weak,  and  weary  ; 
Amid  the  quiet  of  camp,  on  the  showy  review, 
Always  affable,  kind,  brave,  courteous,  and  true, — 
Ever  cherished,  remembered,  wherever  thou  mayest  go, 
Brave  Gen.  John  G.  Walker,  we  bade  thee  adieu." 

After  Gen.  Walker  had  been  relieved  of  command  of  the 
division,  Brig.-General  King  took  command  of  the  same,  in 
the  absence  of  Brig.-Gen.  Waul  (senior  general),  who  was 
absent  in  Texas,  suffering  from  the  wound  he  received  at  the 
battle  of  Jenkins's  Ferry.  General  King  remained  in  command 
of  the  division  until  the  arrival  of  Major-General  John  H. 
Forney,  who  arrived  from  east  of  the  Mississippi  River 
shortly  after  General  Walker  was  relieved. 

Nothing  unusual  transpired  in  camp  until  the  morning  of 
the  30th,  when  we  moved  camp  a  few  miles,  to  a  new  camp, 
which  might  be  safely  called  Camp  Vermin.  At  this  camp,  we 
were  annoyed,  day  and  night,  with  mosquitoes,  red-bugs,  ticks, 
etc.,  and  last,  though  not  least,  with  blue  beef.  Shortly  after 
our  arrival  at  this  camp,  all  of  the  light  artillery  in  the  Dis- 
trict of  Western  Louisiana  was  formed  into  three  battalions, 
commanded  by  Col.  J.  L.  Brent ;  afterwards,  with  a  slight 
alteration,  by  Major  G.  W.  Squires.  They  were  composed  as 
follows : 

1ST  BATTALION. 

Captain  W.  G.  MOSELEY'S  Horse  Artillery. 
M.  V.  MCMAHON'S      " 
T.  D.  NETTLES'S  (Valverde)  Horse  Artillery. 
"        J.  A.  A.  WEST'S  «  " 

Commanded  by  Major  O.  J.  SEMMES. 

3D  BATTALION. 

Captain  H.  C.  WEST'S        Light  Artillery. 
"       WM.  G.  GIBSON'S        "         " 
"       B.  F.  WINCHESTERS  "         " 
"       THOMAS  BOONE'S       "         " 
Commanded  by  Major  G.  W.  SQUIRES. 


272  WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 


SD  BATTALION. 

Captain  T.  O.  BENTON'S     Light  Artillery. 
J.  T.  M.  BARNES'S    " 
M.  T.  GORDEY'S       "          " 

Commanded  by  Major  T.  A.  FARIES. 


We  remained  at  this  camp  until  the  morning  of  the  23d  of 
July,  when  we  received  orders  to  proceed,  with  all  possible 
haste,  to  the  Mississippi  River,  the  location  to  be  at  or  near 
Waterloo  Landing.  After  marching  fifteen  miles,  we  arrived 
at  camp  on  the  edge  of  Cathoulia  Lake. 

July  24th.  Marched  twenty  miles.  We  traveled  through  a 
section  of  country  that  was  entirely  deserted  by  man  and 
beast. 

July  25th.  Marched  ten  miles,  and  camped  on  the  bank  of 
Black  River,  about  two  miles  below  the  mouth  of  Trinity 
River.  We  remained  at  this  camp  until  the  27th,  when  we 
crossed  over  Little  River  on  a  pontoon  bridge,  and  camped  on 
Bird  Creek  (about  four  miles  from  Harris onburg),  after  march- 
ing twelve  miles.  We  remained  at  this  camp  until  the  26th 
of  August.  While  remaining  at  this  camp,  General  King  re- 
ceived a  letter  of  instruction  from  General  Walker,  relating 
to  transfer  of  cotton,  etc.,  etc.,  in  the  following  patriotic 
words  : 

"  GENERAL  : — You  are  instructed  to  prevent  all  intercourse 
with  the  enemy  at  Natchez,  or  elsewhere,  for  the  purpose  of 
trade,  or  upon  any  pretext  whatever.  You  will  warn  persons 
who  are  or  have  been  in  the  habit  of  visiting  places  occupied 
by  the  enemy,  that  such  visits  will  be  treated  as  cause  of  arrest, 
and  the  confiscation  of  any  goods  that  they  may  introduce 
within  our  lines.  You  will  see  that  these  instructions  are 
strictly  enforced.  The  habit  of  permitting  such  intercourse 
has  demoralized  the  people,  .and  depreciated  our  currency, 
and  it  must  be  prevented,  Similar  instructions  have  beer; 
sent  to  the  commander  of  the  cavalry." 

This  was  gratifying  news  to  the  troops,  coming  from  their 
old  commander.  Although  shoeless  and  coatless,  they  pre- 


WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  273 

ferred  it,  rather  than  to  wear  any  ill-gotten  goods  from  their 
oppressors.  On  the  evening  of  the  25th,  we  received  orders 
to  be  ready  to  cross  the  Mississippi  River.  This  order  created 
some  dissatisfaction  amongst  the  troops.  Quartermasters  were 
busily  engaged  in  sending  off  all  baggage.  All  baggage  was 
ordered  to  be  sent  to  Shreveport  for  "  safe  keeping."  Only 
one  wagon  and  one  ambulance  were  allowed  to  each  regiment. 

On  the  morning  of  the  26th,  we  took  up  the  line  of  march 
again  ;  crossed  the  Washita  River  at  Harrisonburg,  on  a  pon- 
toon bridge.  Harrisonburg  looked  rather  the  worse  for  wear. 
But  few  houses  were  left  standing  in  the  place.  The  town  was 
destroyed  by  the  Federals  when  they  took  possession  of  the 
place.  After  crossing  the  Washita  River,  we  continued  our 
march  in  the  direction  of  the  Tensas  River.  We  arrived  in 
camp  late  in  the  evening,  after  marching  eighteen  miles. 

Aug.  27th.  Marched  twelve  miles,  and  camped  on  the  banks 
of  the  Tensas  River.  Shortly  after  our  arrival  in  camp,  the 
pontoon-train  from  Alexandria,  accompanied  by  General 
Polignac's  Division,  arrived.  The  boats  were  placed  across 
the  Tensas  River,  to  swell  them,  so  as  to  make  them  water- 
tight before  we  would  attempt  to  cross  the  Mississippi  River 
in  them.  In  the  mean  time,  detachments  of  cavalry  were  sent 
along  the  bank  of  the  Mississippi  River,  to  watch  the  move- 
ments of  the  enemy's  gun-boats.  We  were  distant  from 
Waterloo  Landing,  on  the  river,  about  five  miles.  Some  few 
of  the  troops  deserted,  in  order  to  escape  crossing  the  river, 
but  the  mass  of  the  troops  were  ready  to  embark  at  a 
moment's  warning.  Some  reflections  had  been  cast  on  the 
division  for  not  going  across,  when,  in  fact,  they  were  never 
ordered  to  make  the  attempt,  nor  even  allowed  the  pleasure  of 
seeing  the  river  at  this  place.  For  the  information  of  the 
many,  I  will  state,  from  good  authority,  that  General  Taylor 
failed  in  his  well-laid  plan.  It  was  not  his  intention  to 
attempt  to  cross  any  troops  over  the  Mississippi  River  until 
he  was  able  to  negotiate  with  two  of  the  gun-boat  commanders 
for  buying  them  and  their  gun-boats,  for  a  certain  amount  of 
cotton,  then  stored  at  Brownsville.  His  plan  was  for  the  two 
18 


274  WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 

gun-boats  to  come  alongside  of  the  river-bank,  where  our  men 
were  prepared  to  board  them.  Dressing  our  men  in  the 
Yankee  uniform,  at  the  same  time  knowing  the  enemy's  sig- 
nals, he  would  send  one  of  the  gun-boats  up  the  river,  and  the 
other  down  the  river.  It  seemed  very  probable  he  would  be 
able  to  capture  all  the  gun-boats  on  the  Mississippi  River. 
This  he  expected  to  accomplish,  after  he  succeeded  in  getting 
their  private  signals.  If  successful  in  this  undertaking,  he 
could  readily  cross  his  troops  over  the  river,  without  being 
molested. 

It  is  well  enough  known  that  the  two  captains  were  afraid  of 
one  another.  These  remarks  I  make  by  way  of  an  explanation, 
as  the  real  cause  of  the  non-crossing  of  our  division.  General 
Taylor,  having  failed  in  his  plans,  took  a  final  adieu  of  the 
division.  During  the  night,  he  crossed  the  river,  to  take 
charge  of  the  defenses  of  Mobile. 


WALKEE'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  275 


CHAPTER  XXXV. 

ON  THE  MARCH. — GENERAL  FORNEY  TAKES  COMMAND  OF  THE  DIVISION. — 
ARRIVAL  AT  MONTICELLO. — GRAND  REVIEW. — MARCH  FROM  MONTI- 
CELLO  TO  CAMDEN. — FORTIFYING  CAMDEN. — MARCH  FROM  CAMDEN  TO 
CAMP  SUMTER. — MARCH  FROM  CAMP  SUMTER  TO  CAMP  MAGRUDER.— 
WINTER  QUARTERS. — DESCRIPTION  OF  CAMP  MAGRUDER. — AMUSEMENTS 
IN  CAMP. — ANECDOTES,  ETC. — SHAM  BATTLE. — GENERAL  REVIEW. 

% 

UGr.  29th.  Having  abandoned  all  hopes  of  crossing  the 
river,  for  the  present,  we  fell  back   some  twelve 
miles  from  the  river,  and  camped  to  await  further 
orders. 

On  the  morning  of  the  30th  of  August,  accompanied  by 
General  Polignac's  Division,  we  took  up  our  line  of  march  for 
Monticello,  Arkansas.  This  movement  was  made  through  the 
intercession  of  General  Magruder  to  General  Kirby  Smith.  He 
informed  General  Kirby  Smith  that  the  Federal  general  (Gen- 
eral Steele)  at  Little  Rock  had  been  reinforced  by  the  16th  Army 
Corps,  under  command  of  General  A.  J.  Smith.  The  Fed- 
eral general,  anticipating  that  Walker's  and  Polignac's  Divis- 
ions had  crossed  the  Mississippi  River,  had  contemplated 
making  a  reconnoissance  towards  Monticello.  The  expedi- 
tion was  to  start  from  Pine  Bluff.  When  about  ready  to  start, 
they  heard  of  the  arrival  of  our  forces  at  Monticello.  Conse- 
quently they  had  to  abandon  their  contemplated  raid,  on  hear- 
iDg  of  our  advance.  After  marching  eight  miles,  we  camped 
on  Turkey  Creek. 

Aug.  31st.  Marched  sixteen  miles,  and  camped  near  Bceuff 
Prairie.  On  arriving  in  camp,  the  commissary  department, 
to  be  up  and  doing,  issued  us  four  ounces  of  "  hard  tack,"  and 
three-quarters  of  a  pound  of  flour.  The  next  day  we  rested, 
to  eat  our  "hard  tack." 


276  WALKEB'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 

Sept.  2d.  Marched  eight  miles,  in  the  direction  of  Monroe. 

Sept.  3d.  Marched  fifteen  miles,  over  a  dry,  sandy  road  ; 
water  was  very  scarce  along  the  route.  Shortly  after  our  arrival 
in  camp,  our  new  division  commander,  Major-General  John 
H.  Forney,  of  Vicksburg  fame,  arrived  in  camp,  accompanied 
by  his  respective  staff  officers,  as  follows,  viz. : 

Major  S.  CROOM,  A.  A.  General. 

"     H.  B.  ADAMS,  Quartermaster. 

"     H.  W.  WILLIAMS,  Paymaster. 

"     J.  M.  DOUGLAS,  Assist.  Commissary. 
Surgeon — D.  PORT  SMITH. 
Med.  Inspector — J.  C.  NIDELET. 
Lieut.  R.  L.  UPSHAW,  A.  A.  and  Inspector- General. 

"       J.  M.  AVERT,  Ordnance  Officer. 

"       J.  M.  WYLEY.  Aid-de-Camp. 

"      R.  R.  JONES,  Aid-de-Camp. 

Major-General  John  H.  Forney  was  an  old  United  States 
army  officer  ;  a  graduate  of  West  Point.  He  was  a  strict  dis- 
ciplinarian. He  commanded  a  division  of  Alabama  troops, 
east  of  the  Mississippi  Kiver,  and  participated  in  pretty  much 
all  the  battles  east  of  the  river,  from  the  battle  of  Manassas  to 
the  fall  of  Vicksburg.  After  being  paroled  at  Yicksburg,  he 
returned  to  his  home  in  Alabama  for  a  short  period  of  time. 
Having  been  exchanged,  he  was  assigned  to  the  command  of 
all  the  Yicksburg  paroled  soldiers.  Afterwards,  he  was  ordered 
to  report  to  Lieut.-General  E.  Kirby  Smith,  for  duty.  On 
reporting  to  General  Smith,  he  was  assigned  to  the  command 
of  late  Walker's  Division. 

On  the  4th,  we  marched  fourteen  miles,  over  a  dry,  sandy 
road.  The  day  was  clear  and  warm.  The  constant  daily  march 
over  the  sandy  roads  began  to  exhibit  its  effects  on  the  men. 
They  were  physically  worn  out,  and  much  reduced  in  flesh. 

Sept.  5th.  Marched  eleven  miles.  On  our  arrival  in  camp, 
blankets  were  stretched  in  tent  form,  to  keep  the  scorching 
rays  of  the  sun  from  us. 

Sept.  6th.  Marched  eight  miles.  Passed  through  the  town 
of  Monroe  again,  and  camped  about  half-a-mile  north  of  the 


WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  277 

town,  at  an  old  camp-ground,  known  by  the  name  of  Bluff 
Springs,  where  we  remained  until  the  morning  of  the  14th, 
when  we  took  up  the  line  of  march  in  the  direction  of  Bayou 
Bartholomew ;  marched  fourteen  miles  and  camped  for  the 
night. 

Sept.  15th.  Left  camp  at  4  o'clock,  A.  M.,  and  marched 
eighteen  miles.  Apparently  for  recreation,  a  new  style  of 
tactics  was  adopted  by  General  Forney,  which  consisted  in 
having  roll-call  every  time  we  rested.  What  his  object  was 
I  am  unable  to  say,  unless  it  was  to  shorten  the  period  of 
resting.  No  sooner  was  the  roll  called  than  we  would  be  on  the 
march  again. 

Sept.  16th.  Marched  twenty  miles.  Passed  through  the 
town  of  Bastrop,  and  camped  a  few  miles  from  the  town. 

Sept.  17th.  Marched  twenty-four  miles.  Koll-call  as  usual. 
Crossed  Bayou  Bartholomew  on  a  pontoon-bridge.  Crossed 
the  State-line  dividing  Louisiana  and  Arkansas.  Passed 
through  a  little  village  called  Berlin,  and  arrived  in  camp 
near  the  town  of  Hamburg,  where  we  remained  until  the 
morning  of  the  19th,  when  we  were  on  the  march  again. 
Passed  through  the  town  of  Hamburg,  and  marched  sixteen 
miles. 

Sept.  20th.  Marched  seventeen  miles,  and  encamped  near 
the  town  of  Monticello,  the  place  of  our  destination  for  the 
present.  From  the  21st  till  the  24th,  we  were  employed  in 
cleaning  our  camp-ground.  On  the  evening  of  the  25th, 
at  dress-parade,  we  received  orders  to  be  ready  the  next  day 
for  a  grand  review,  to  be  held  by  General  Magruder,  then 
commanding  the  State  of  Arkansas. 

Sept.  26th.  Having  dressed  ourselves  in  our  best  apparel,  we 
left  camp  at  9  o'clock,  A.  M.,  and  arrived  at  the  parade  ground, 
situated  north  of  Monticello.  After  we  took  our  position,  we 
stacked  arms,  and  awaited  the  presence  of  General  Magruder. 
General  Forney  was  soon  notified  that  the  commanding-gen- 
eral of  the  State  of  Arkansas  would  shortly  make  his  appear- 
ance on  the  field.  Presently,  the  command  "  Attention,"  was 
given  ;  then,  "  Take  arms."  Drawing  our  breath,  and  cast- 


278  WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 

ing  our  eyes  to  the  right,  we  perceived,  at  a  distance, 
something  resembling  a  comet,  with  a  long  tail,  advancing 
towards  us.  Further  investigation  plainly  told  us  tliat  what 
we  took  for  a  comet  was  nothing  more  nor  less  than  the  bunch 
of  ostrich-feathers  in  General  Magruder's  hat.  He  approached 
General  Forney,  and  the  two  saluted  each  other.  The  bands 
struck  up  the  tune  "  Hail  to  the  Chief."  General  Magruder 
then  took  his  position  alongside  a  number  of  carriages  filled 
with  ladies.  Presently,  General  Forney  gave  the  command, 
"  Prepare  for  inspection."  "  To  the  rear,  open  order."  After 
the  lines  were  dressed,  and  the  guides  had  taken  their  position, 
General  Magruder  passed  along  the  lines,  mounted  on  his 
war  horse  "  Cincinnatus,"  who  appeared  to  keep  time  to  the 
national  air  of  "  Dixie."  As  he  passed  before  us,  I  believe 
there  was  not  an  officer  or  soldier  in  the  division  who  did  not 
eye  the  hero  of  the  peninsula,  Malvern  Hill,  and  last,  though 
not  least,  the  hero  of  Galveston,  in  such  a  manner  that,  even 
if  he  dressed  himself  in  mask  apparel,  he  could  be  easily 
recognized  by  any  soldier  of  the  division.  After  getting 
through  his  inspection,  he  took  his  former  position  alongside 
the  carriages.  The  command  was  given,  "  Close  order,  march ! " 
"  Prepare  to  pass  in  review  by  companies,  left  wheel,  column 
forward,  guide  right,  march ! "  After  passing  in  review,  we  took 
our  former  position.  Afterwards,  General  Magruder  drilled  us 
for  half  an  hour,  to  please  the  ladies.  He  expressed  himself 
highly  pleased  with  our  division,  and  remarked  that  he  would 
soon  settle  the  dispute  between  him  and  Steele,  the  Federal 
commander,  viz.,  whether  he  or  Steele  was  the  legal  com- 
mander of  Arkansas.  The  divisions  of  Polignac,  Churchill, 
and  Parsons  were  also  on  the  parade-ground.  After  the  review 
was  over  we  returned  to  our  old  camp,  where  we  went 
through  the  regular  routine  of  camp-life.  Nothing  unusual 
transpired  in  camp  until  the  morning  of  the  30th,  when  the 
Missouri  Cavalry,  under  command  of  General  Price,  crossed 
the  Arkansas  River,  on  their  way  to  their  own  State,  to  create 
a  general  havoc  among  the  loyal  folks  wherever  they 
went. 


WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  279 

On  the  morning  of  the  30th,  we  received  orders  to  get  ready 
to  march  for  Camden,  on  the  Ouachita  River. 

On  the  morning  of  October  2d,  we  took  a  final  adieu  of 
Monticello,  and  marched  off  in  the  direction  of  Camden.  The 
roads  were  miserably  bad,  owing  to  the  incessant  rains.  We 
arrived  in  camp  late  in  the  evening,  after  marching  only 
twelve  miles.  Our  wagons  did  not  arrive  until  midnight. 

October  3d.  Marched  thirteen  miles.  The  country  we 
traveled  through  was  remarkably  fertile,  but  the  most  of  the 
farms  were  lying  waste,  without  fences ;  while  briers,  and 
weeds,  and  young  saplings  encumbered  the  rich  soil,  in  place 
of  the  golden  grain,  and  rich  harvests  of  corn.  In  addition  to 
want,  there  was  deep  mourning  in  every  house  we  passed,  for 
dear  ones  who  had  bravely  laid  down  their  lives  in  the  cause 
they  believed  was  just. 

October  4th.  Marched  fourteen  miles,  tramping  over  pud- 
dly roads  and  wading  through  the  creeks.  To-day's  march 
was  over  roads  deserted,  almost  covered  in  with  overhanging 
woods,  bleak,  black,  and  dismal  looking.  About  four  o'clock 
in  the  evening  we  arrived  in  camp. 

October  5th.  Marched  eleven  miles.  The  sun  was  up,  and 
looked  bright  and  cheerful  throughout  the  day. 

October  6th.  Marched  twenty  miles,  and  encamped  near 
Camden,  where  we  remained,  drilling  and  fortifying  the  place, 
until  the  morning  of  the  15th,  when  we  were  ordered  to  cross 
the  Ouachita  River,  at  the  Lone-Pine  Ferry,  situated  about 
two  miles  north  of  Camden.  After  crossing  the  river  we 
camped  about  half  a  mile  from  the  town.  At  dress-parade, 
in  the  evening,  we  were  ordered  to  be  ready  to  commence 
fortifying  the  following  morning.  Our  division  was  assigned 
the  duty  of  fortifying  the  water-front  of  Camden ;  Parsons's 
the  south-east ;  Polignac's,  the  south-west ;  and  Churchill's, 
the  north-west  lines. 

On  the  evening  of  the  16th,  we  witnessed  the  melancholy 
performance  of  shooting  Captain  John  Guynes,  Company 
F,  22d  Texas  Infantry.  He  was  accused  of  encouraging  his 
men  to  desert,  when  we  were  expected  to  cross  the  Missis- 


280  WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 

sippi  Biver.  He  was  a  man  about  fifty  years  old,  and  very 
much  admired  by  his  men,  and  well  liked  by  the  officers  of 
his  brigade.  Every  effort  was  made  to  have  him  reprieved, 
but  all  without  avail. 

On  the  evening  of  the  8th,  General  King  was  relieved  from 
duty  with  the  division,  and  assigned  to  the  Texas  Brigade  of 
Polignac's  Division.  Nothing  unusual  transpired  in  camp 
until  November  3d,  when  a  regiment  from  each  brigade 
went  on  picket  on  the  Princeton  road,  about  twelve  miles  from 
Camden,  for  what  purpose  I  am  unable  to  say,  as  there  was 
no  enemy  nearer  than  Pine  Bluff,  some  eighty  miles  distant. 
After  completing  the  fortifications  around  Camden,  we  took 
up  the  line  of  march  for  Camp  Sumter  (named  by  the  Mis- 
souri troops),  on  Bed  Eiver,  north  of  Shreveport,  near  Spring 
Bank,  on  the  morning  of  the  14th,  and  marched  twelve  miles 
over  a  very  good  road. 

On  the  morning  of  the  15th  it  commenced  to  rain  as  if  all 
the  "  floodgates  of  heaven  were  turned  loose."  Arrived  in 
camp  late  in  the  evening,  wet  to  the  skin,  after  marching 
fifteen  miles. 

October  16th.  Marched  eleven  miles.  Still  raining.  A 
great  many  of  our  wagons  were  unable  to  arrive  in  camp  last 
night. 

October  17th.  Marched  twelve  miles,  over  a  stiff  red  clay 
road,  the  rain  still  pouring  down  in  torrents,  with  no  pros- 
pect of  its  clearing  up  soon.  It  was  almost  impossible  to 
march  over  the  roads ;  and,  to  look  at  us  on  our  weary  and 
laborious  march,  one  would  judge  us  to  be  a  party  of  "  Shak- 
ing Quakers,"  reclining  backward  nearly  as  much  as  forward. 

October  18th.  Marched  eight  miles,  and  arrived  at  Camp 
Sumter.  Shortly  after  our  arrival  in  camp,  the  weather 
cleared  off,  with  the  exception  of  a  cold  norther.  We  remained 
at  this  camp  until  the  morning  of  the  22d,  when  we  were 
ordered  to  march  for  Minden,  Louisiana,  to  go  into  winter 
quarters.  About  nine  o'clock  in  the  morning,  we  bade  fare- 
well to  Camp  Sumter,  but  not  before  we  received  four  ounces 
of  sugar  from  the  Commissary  Department — the  first  we  had 


WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  281 

received  since  we  left  the  sugar  regions  of  Louisiana.  We 
marched  twelve  miles,  over  a  barren  and  rocky  road. 

October  23d.  Marched  fourteen  miles.  The  weather  was 
miserably  cold,  and  a  regular  norther  blowing. 

October  24th.  Marched  fifteen  miles,  through  a  rich  section 
of  country.  The  weather  cleared  off  about  sunset. 

October  25th.  Marched  fourteen  miles,  and  camped  on  a 
clear,  crystal-running  creek. 

October  26th.  Marched  twelve  miles  through  the  pine 
woods,  and  camped. 

October  27th.  Marched  twelve  miles  over  the  same  section 
of  country  as  yesterday.  After  our  arrival  in  camp,  the 
weather  cleared  off,  and  no  indication  of  any  more  rain  soon. 

October  28th.  Marched  eight  miles,  and  camped  near  the 
town  of  Minden.  We  remained  at  this  camp  until  the  1st  of 
December,  whan  we  moved  camp  four  miles,  to  a  more  suit- 
able camp-ground.  After  our  arrival  in  camp,  we  were  given 
to  understand  that  the  present  camp  would  be  our  winter 
quarters.  Preparations  were  at  once  made  by  the  troops  to 
erect  log  cabins,  which  was  quickly  done.  On  the  evening  of 
the  4th,  at  dress-parade,  we  were  informed  that  our  present 
camp  was  to  be  known  by  the  name  of  Camp  Magruder, 
through  respect  to  General  Magruder,  commanding  the  State 
of  Arkansas.  Many  of  the  troops  were  careless  in  building 
their  cabins,  owing  to  the  fact  that  there  was  no  certainty 
of  our  remaining  any  definite  period  of  time ;  but  the  cold 
weather  now  set  in,  which  left  them  no  alternative  but  to 
get  into  their  cabins  as  soon  as  possible. 

On  the  morning  of  the  8th,  it  commenced  to  sleet ;  during 
the  night  it  commenced  to  freeze,  and  the  next  morning  the 
ice  was  fully  two  inches  thick.  Providence  seemed  to  have 
favored  us  until  we  had  our  quarters  completed. 

On  the  evening  of  the  12th,  the  troops  received  two  months' 
wages.  This  was  the  first  money  we  had  received  in  two 
years  for  our  services,  or,  in  other  words,  the  first  money  re- 
ceived since  our  pay  was  advanced  from  $11  to  $13  per 
month.  To  prove  the  generosity  of  our  paymaster,  he  adr 


282  WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 

vised  the  soldiers  to  bond  their  money  for  a  period  of  twenty 
years,  drawing  interest  at  the  rate  of  eight  per  cent,  per 
annum.  The  greatest  portion  of  them  believed  in  the  old 
adage,  that  "  half  a  loaf  of  bread  was  better  than  none,"  and 
chose  the  ready  cash,  giving  a  receipt  to  the  C.  S.  A.,  and 
trusting  to  their  honor  for  the  balance  due  us,  viz.  :  two 
years'  pay,  clothing,  etc.,  etc.  Those  that  were  unfortunate 
enough  to  trust  to  the  bonding  scheme  may  get  the  princi- 
pal and  interest  after  the  ratification  of  the  treaty  of  peace 
between  the  Confederate  and  United  States.  Those  that  re- 
ceived their  $22  enjoyed  themselves  at  betting  at  monte, 
poker,  euchre,  etc.,  etc.,  much  to  the  amusement  of  the  bond- 
holders. The  greatest  care  as  to  the  cleanliness  of  cabins  was 
the  next  order  of  the  day,  and  each  regiment  tried  to  excel 
in-  this  particular.  Time  passed  on  as  smoothly  as  you 
pleased,  nothing  occurring  to  disturb  our  peace  of  mind,  ex- 
cept the  routine  of  camp  duties. 

Camp  Magruder  was  situated  on  the  right  of  the  military 
road  leading  from  Shreveport  to  Camden,  in  the  midst  of  a 
pine  ridge.  On  the  south-west  was  a  deserted  field,  well 
adapted  to  the  exercise  of  drilling.  Of  course,  camps  were 
always  selected  in  view  of  such  very  agreeable  contingencies. 
Our  quarters  were  substantial  log  cabins,  constructed  of  pine 
logs.  Each  cabin  was  fourteen  by  sixteen  feet.  The  privates' 
quarters  were  in  two  parallel  rows,  facing  each  other,  while 
the  officers'  ran  perpendicular  to  them,  forming  nearly  a 
square  at  one  end.  The  men  were  not  too  much  crowded, 
and  slept  in  berths  placed  one  above  the  ot'her,  similar  to 
those  in  a  state-room  of  a  river  steamer. 

We  have  read  descriptions  of  palaces,  with  their  marble 
colonnades,  tesselated  floors,  ceilings  frescoed  and  embel- 
lished with  carved  and  curious  figures,  adorned,  ornamented 
and  furnished  with  all  the  richness  and  elegance  which  art 
and  genius  could  devise,  or  the  skill  of  man  produce  ;  yet  no 
such  picture  intrudes  its  glare  and  glitter  upon  us  at  Camp 
Magruder.  The  heart  wearied  with  long  years'  of  suffering, 
v danger  and  hardship,  amid  the  stirring  and  eventful  scenes 


WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  283 

of  our  struggle  for  national  independence,  naturally  turns  to 
an  humbler  scene,  with  all  its  fond  associations.  "  Home, 
sweet  home,"  is  a  theme  which  melts  the  heart  of  the  stern- 
est of  our  scarred  veterans.  Many  times  have  we  seen  the 
tears  steal  down  the  bronzed  cheeks  of  those  who  have  passed 
unmoved  amid  the  horrors  of  the  battle-field,  as  the  strains 
of  this  cherished  refrain  came  from  some  saddened  heart, 
gushing  its  melody  from  a  sweet-toned  voice  or  instrument. 
"We  remember  the  cottage-home  embowered  in  trees,  with  the 
rose  and  honeysuckle  clambering  over  the  trellis  at  the  ends 
of  the  porch,  and  the  jessamine,  with  its  sweet-scented  flowers, 
perfuming  all  the  summer  air.  We  remember,  too,  with  in- 
tense yearning,  the  social  family-gathering  in  the  evening, 
the  fondly-loved  sisters  and  brothers,  the  adored  mother  and 
revered  father,  now  exiled  from  that  cottage  home,  or  battling 
in  the  ranks  of  our  country's  patriots.  Ah !  how  these 
memories  throng  to  the  mind  and  bring  forth  long-dormant 
reminiscences  of  the  past !  But  what  have  these  thoughts  to 
do  with  "  Our  Quarters  "  at  Camp  Magruder  ?  Nothing,  dear 
reader,  save  as  a  reverie  of  camp-life. 

The  winter  wind  is  whispering  a  sighing  requiem  through 
the  pine-boughs,  which  form  a  shelter  near  our  present  home. 
Its  breath  is  sharp  and  biting.  What  matters  it?  Do  not 
our  log  cabins  keep  Boreas  at  bay  ?  Moreover,  there  is  a 
comfortable  fireplace  at  one  end,  with  its  mud  chimney  out- 
side, where  the  fire  crackles  and  the  ruddy  flame  leaps  joy- 
fully upward,  as  if  defying  all  old  Winter's  fierce  attacks. 
We  sit  (my  companions  and  myself,  I  mean)  around  this  cozy 
fire,  and  laugh  and  chat  away  the  laggard  hours,  as  if  stern 
war  was  not  a  bitter  reality,  and  life  had  no  aim  save  the 
enjoyment  of  its  flitting  hours.  Soldiers  are  proverbial  for 
their  light-heartedness  and  reckless  joviality  under  the  most 
trying  circumstances.  Taking  a  ramble  through  the  camp, 
you  could  behold  a  party  of  soldiers  engaged  at  whist,  all 
fours,  euchre,  or  some  other  game.  In  another  part  was  the 
game  of  monte,  and  around  would  be  gathered  a  large  num- 
ber of  betters,  staking  small  sums  upon  the  turn  of  the  cards ; 


284  WALKEE'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 

for  all  appeared  to  have  more  or  less  Confederate  money.  In 
still  another  quarter,  a  small  party  would  be  seen  half-re- 
clining upon  their  blankets,  while  one  of  them  recited  some 
story  of  other  days  and  lands.  Songs,  too,  enlivened  the 
scene,  and  served  to  beguile  the  hours.  We  will  introduce 
our  readers  to  a  cabin  full  of  soldiers,  who  are  enjoying  them- 
selves with  songs,  jokes,  etc.,  etc. 

"  Why,"  asked  one  of  them,  who  appeared  to  be  the  leader 
in  the  crowd,  "are  love  and  war  so  closely  allied?  I  cannot 
see  the  analogy  between  them  at  all,  unless  it  be  that  one 
leads  to  a  future  being,  the  other  to  a  future  world." 

"  Bravo,  Jack !  Now  you  have  given  and  solved  a  conun- 
drum in  the  same  breath.  It  is  always  said  and  sung  that 

"  «  None  but  the  brave  deserve  the  fair/  " 

exclaimed  the  jolly  C from  a  corner  of  the  cabin. 

"  That  may  be  very  well,"  replied  Jack,  "  but  you  find  the 
dear  creatures  seldom  trouble  their  heads  much  about  a  fellow 
if  he  gets  an  ounce  of  lead  in  the  stomach ;  they  generally  bear 
the  thing  with  Christian  resignation,  and  console  themselves 
by  picking  up  some  sensible  man  who  stayed  at  home,  to 
look  after  them." 

"A  plague  on  such  cowards,"  said  another.  "  You  are  los- 
ing your  gallantry ;  didn't  you  see  how  they  literally  buried 
us  in  flowers,  as  we  passed  through  Minden  ?  " 

"  All  very  fine  ;  it  reminds  me  of  a  hungry  man  suffering  at 
a  delicious  feast,  while  some  sensible  fellow  walks  in  and 
enjoys  the  banquet." 

During  the  time  we  remained  at  camp  Magruder,  there  was 
an  active  campaign  of  amusement,  and  both  men  and  officers 
devoted  themselves  with  ardor  to  such  sports  as  the  service 
at  all  tolerated,  enjoying  the  fleeting  hours  up  to  the  time  we 
took  a  final  adieu,  with  unabated  devotion  to  pleasure.  Such 
was  camp-life  at  Camp  Magruder. 

The  utmost  contentment  and  good  feeling  prevailed  among 
the  men,  and  all  seemed  determined  to  enjoy  the  days  of  the 
winter  months.  With  abundant  material  for  the  purpose,  they 


WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  285 

soon  manufactured  tables,  shelves,  and  benches.  Most  agree- 
ably were  they  disappointed  at  their  situation  and  surround- 
ings. They  soon  gathered  about  them  all  those  little  com- 
forts and  conveniences  which  so  materially  contribute  to  the 
happiness  of  a  soldier's  precarious  existence. 

Nothing  unusual  transpired  in  camp,  until  the  evening  of 
January  8th,  1865,  when  the  troops  participated  in  a  "  sham 
battle,"  under  the  jurisdiction  of  General  Forney.  Every- 
thing passed  off  pleasantly,  and  to  the  entire  satisfaction  of 
the  ladies,  who  assembled  in  large  numbers  to  witness  the 
scene.  We  returned  to  camp  late  in  the  evening,  strongly 
convinced  that  it  was  easier  to  participate  in  a  hundred 
"  sham  battles  "  than  one  sure-enough  battle.  After  the  "  sham 
battle  "  was  over,  nothing  unusual  transpired  in  camp  until 
the  morning  of  the  17th,  when  the  commander  of  the  Trans- 
Mississippi  Department,  Gen.  Kirby  Smith,  arrived  at  camp, 
for  the  purpose  of  reviewing  his  troops ;  and  great  enthusiasm 
was  evinced  by  them.  He  was  accompanied  by  General 
Buckner,  of  Fort  Donaldson  fame,  then  commanding  the  dis- 
trict of  Louisiana.  After  passing  in  review,  and  taking  oui 
former  position  in  line,  Gen.  Buckner  put  us  through  Hardee's 
tactics  for  about  two  hours,  which  proved  highly  gratifying  to 
the  ladies  who  had  come  from  all  parts  of  the  country  to  wit- 
ness the  grand  review.  We  returned  to  camp  late  in  the 
evening,  tired  and  weary.  We  remained  at  camp  Magruder 
until  the  morning  of  the  26th,  when  we  took  a  final  adieu  of 
it,  and  took  up  the  line  of  march  for  Shreveport.  A  large 
number  of  ladies  from  the  surrounding  country  arrived  in 
camp,  to  witness  our  departure,  and,  as  the  troops  were  mov- 
ing off,  "  Good  bye,"  "  God  bless  yon,"  was  on  the  lips  of  all. 


286  WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 


CHAPTEE  XXXYI. 


EN  ROUTE  FOB  8HREVEPORT. — GRAND  REVIEW  OP  THE  DIVISION. — GRAND 
BARBECUE    GIVEN   BF    THE   LADIES    OP    LOUISIANA    TO    THE  DIVISION. 


the  evening  of  the  26th  we  arrived  in  camp,  after 
getting  a  thorough  drenching  from  the  rain  that  had 
been  falling  in .  torrents  upon  us.  Our  march  to-day 
was  sixteen  miles. 

Jan.  27th.  Marched  eight  miles.  Notwithstanding  the 
heavy  drizzling  rain  falling  the  men  were  all  in  fine  spirits, 
and  gay  songs,  from  a  hundred  throats  in  unison,  made  the 
march  a  merry  one. 

On  the  morning  of  the  28th  the  march  was  resumed.  Ee- 
crossed  Eed  Eiver  at  Shreveport,  and  camped  about  a  mile 
east  of  town,  after  marching  four  miles.  On  our  arrival  in 
camp,  details  were  made  from  the  various  companies,  to  haul 
wood  and  water  a  distance  of  about  half  a  mile.  To  add  to 
this  inconvenience,  about  4  o'clock,  P.M.,  a  most  terrific  storm 
of  wind,  rain,  and  hail  commenced  from  the  north-west ;  the 
howling  tempest  and  pelting  rain  blended  in  a  continuous 
roar  throughout  the  night.  When  the  morning  of  the  29th 
began  to  send  its  pale  rays  across  the  hills,  our  camp  pre- 
sented a  most  lamentable  spectacle.  Only  two  tents  were 
standing,  out  of  all  the  officers'  tents  in  the  division.  The  men 
were  huddled  together  in  groups,  endeavoring  to  keep  warm. 
The  fires,  having  been  extinguished,  could  add  nothing  to  their 
comfort ;  and  the  poor  fellows,  wet,  supperless,  and  without 
the  fragment  of  a  chance  for  breakfast,  presented  a  most 
wretched  appearance  indeed.  Tenfcs,  blankets,  and  all  the 
paraphernalia  pf  a  soldier's  outfit  were  scattered  right  and  left 
over  the  camp-ground.  Our  brave  and  determined  troops  looked 


WALKEE'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  287 

as  if  in  a  dream,  standing  near  their  shelter,  lamenting  then- 
lost  supper  and  breakfast, — many  of  them  in  their  shirt  sleeves, 
regardless  of  the  rain,  and  reminding  one  of  a  person  invited 
to  a  feast,  who  could  not  go.  Poor  fellows  !  they  looked  the 
personification  of  "Patience  on  a  monument,  smiling  at  grief." 
The  storm  continued  raging  in  all  its  fury,  until  the  evening 
of  the  29th,  when  the  wind  changed,  and  it  cleared  off 
piercingly  cold. 

On  the  30th,  apparently  to  warm  the  troops  up,  General  For- 
ney held  a  grand  review  of  the  division.  The  parade-ground 
was  about  five  miles  from  our  camp.  On  our  march  to  the 
parade-ground,  many  of  the  soldiers,  worn  out  by  exhaustion, 
and  unable  to  march  with  their  companies,  were  picked  up 
and  placed  under  guard  by  General  Forney's  body-guard 
(consisting  of  a  company  of  cavalry).  On  their  arrival  on  the 
parade-ground,  they  were  compeUed  to  march  a  ring  until 
the  review  was  over.  This  treatment  of  the  sick  was  loudly 
denounced  by  both  officers  and  men. 

On  the  morning  of  the  31st  it  commenced  to  rain  again, 
and,  in  the  midst  of  the  rain,  we  moved  camp  to  where  wood 
and  water  were  more  abundant.  Shortly  after  our  arrival  in 
camp,  it  ceased  raining  for  a  short  period  of  time.  In  the 
evening  it  seemed  as  the  flood-gates  of  heaven  had  been 
opened  upon  us.  It  continued  to  rain  until  the  morfting  of 
the  6th,  when  once  more  it  cleared  off,  and  the  sun  came  out 
as  brilliant  as  ever. 

On  the  morning  of  the  7th,  we  again  moved  camp,  conven- 
ient to  a  drill-ground  The  ordinary  course  of  drills  was  per- 
formed each  and  every  day.  Such  was  camp  life  near  Shreve- 
port,  where  we  passed  "  awa'  the  small  hours,"  regardless 
of  sunshine  or  storm,  contentedly  smoking  our  pipes,  or  dis- 
cussing the  latest  war  news.  A  soldier's  tent — provided  he  is 
blessed  with  any — is  his  parlor,  kitchen,  and  bedroom  ;  and 
contains,  within  its  small  and  circumscribed  limits,  ah1  the  con- 
veniences of  his  existence.  How  seldom  do  we  imagine  what 
man  can  endure,  and  still  continue  hopeful,  healthy,  and  joy- 
ous. Such  is  a  soldier's  life. 


288  WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 

We  received  orders  on  the  evening  of  the  14th  to  make 
preparations  for  a  grand  review  and  barbecue,  to  take  place 
on  the  18th.  While  encamped  near  Shreveport  we  were 
daily  visited  by  numbers  of  ladies  from  the  surrounding 
country,  and  from  the  city  of  Shreveport,  who  always  had 
pleasant  smiles  and  cheerful  words  for  the  soldiers.  The 
brass-band  attached  to  the  division  discoursed  most  excellent 
music,  and  was  a  great  feature  of  our  camp-life,  and  a  source 
of  great  gratification  to  our  men.  Soldiers,  as  a  class,  are 
passionately  fond  of  music.  Well  do  we  remember  with 
what  deep  emotions  we  have  listened  to  the  harmonious 
strains,  as  they  floated  out  on  the  air,  some  still  moonlight 
night,  returning  in  murmuring  echoes  from  the  surrounding 
hills.  Truthfully  has  the  great  English  bard  written  : 

"  He  who  hath  not  music  in  his  soul, 
And  is  not  moved  by  concord  of  sweet  sounds, 
Is  fit  for  treason,  stratagem,  and  spoils." 

Awaiting  for  the  coming  of  the  18th,  the  troops  continued 
performing  their  duties  of  guard  mounting,  morning  drill, 
policing  camp,  and  evening  parade :  such  were  the  hours  in 
camp.  In  the  evening  a  roseate  hue  would  tinge  the  western 
horizon,  or  light  clouds  flit  lazily  across  the  sky  overhead, 
and  camp-fires  glittered  for  miles  ;  shouts,  laughter,  the  hum 
of  voices,  mingled  with  songs,  sentimental  and  religious, 
would  float  away  on  the  still  evening  air.  Such  were  some  of 
the  duties  we  had  to  perform. 

Thus  the  days  slipped  away  into  the  irrevocable  past.  The 
fierce  storm-cloud  swept  in  its  fury  over  Virginia,  Georgia, 
and  Missouri.  The  result  of  the  elections  in  several  of  the 
Northern  States  proclaimed  the  probability  of  no  change  in 
the  political  status  of  the  land. 

At  last  the  day  of  the  18th  arrived.  The  day  was  clear, 
beautiful,  and  pleasant.  Thousands  of  spectators,  of  all  ages, 
and  both  sexes,  thronged  to  the  grounds,  early  in  the  day. 
The  division  moved  from  their  camp  to  the  parade-ground, 
about  10  o'clock.  As  soon  as  they  arrived  on  the  parade-ground, 


WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  289 

they  took  their  respective  positions  in  line  of  battle.  Shortly 
after  the  line  was  formed,  Generals  E.  Kirby  Smith  and  J.  B. 
Magruder,  accompanied  by  their  respective  staffs,  arrived. 
Aids-de-camp  were  dispatched  with  orders,  to  the  various 
brigade  commanders.  Everything  being  in  readiness,  the  head 
of  the  column  moved  off,  passing  in  review.  After  the  review 
was  over,  the  division  commenced  to  maneuver ;  advanced 
in  columns  of  attack,  and,  after  deploying,  broke  to  the  rear, 
forming  two  lines  of  battle.  After  changing  front  to  rear  on 
the  first  line,  they  advanced  to  the  attack.  First  was  heard 
the  scattering  fire  of  the  skirmishers  ;  volleys  of  musketry  min- 
gled with  the  roar  of  artillery.  The  maneuvering  was  well 
executed,  and,  but  for  the  gala  appearance  of  the  scene,  a 
spectator  would  have  imagined  that  one  of  those  bloody 
dramas  so  frequent  in  those  warlike  days  was  being  enacted. 
As  it  was,  some  fair  ladies  screamed,  and  down  the  cheeks  of 
others  coursed  tear-drops,  either  of  sympathy  for  a  soldier's 
dangers,  or  from  some  memory  brought  up  by  this  warlike 
scene.  After  the  sham  battle,  the  division  was  drawn  up  in 
columns  of  regiments,  to  be  presented  to  that  gallant  band, 
the  veterans  of  the  3d  Louisiana  Infantry.  This  command, 
numbering  130  men,  was  marched  up  to  the  division,  and  in- 
troduced by  Gen.  Eorney  to  his  troops,  in  a  few  pointed 
remarks,  which  were  responded  to  by  three  hearty  cheers. 

The  division  then  presented  arms  to  the  regiment,  which 
compliment  was  returned.  Arms  were  then  stacked,  and  all 
repaired  to  the  tables,  where  a  bountiful  and  substantial  re- 
past was  spread.  Without  waiting  for  grace  to  be  said,  we 
helped  ourselves,  in  regular  soldier's  style,  much  to  our  own 
comfort  and  to  the  pleasure  of  the  ladies,  doing  ample  justice 
to  the  dinner,  and  only  regretting  that  we  had  not  such  a  din- 
ner every  day.  After  dinner  we  repaired  to  the  speaker's 
stand,  to  enjoy  a  "  feast  of  reason  and  a  flow  of  soul."  A  let- 
ter from  Governor  Allen  was  first  read,  in  which  he  expressed 
his  regret  at  his  unavoidable  absence  on  this  occasion.  The 
troops  were  very  much  disappointed  in  not  having  the  pleas- 
ure of  hearing  the  gallant  and  defiant  chieftain  of  Louisiana. 
19 


290  WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 

Too  much  praise  cannot  be  bestowed  on  him  while  governor 
of  Louisiana.  Day  and  night  he  superintended  the  feeding 
of  the  hungry  and  the  caring  for  the  soldier's  widow.  The 
Louisiana  troops  adored  him,  while  the  Texas  troops  ad- 
mired him  for  his  patronage.  At  the  cessation  of  hostilities 
he  bade  adieu  to  the  people  he  loved  so  well,  and  took  up  his 
abode  in  a  foreign  country,  where  he  breathed  his  last.  His 
remains  have  been  carried  to  his  own  State,  and  interred 
amongst  the  people  he  loved  so  well ;  and  when  the  time  ar- 
rives that  each  State  will  have  the  right  to  erect  monuments 
over  their  fallen  heroes,  I  am  satisfied  that  the  gallant  sons 
of  Louisiana  will  not  forget  their  patriot  governor,  H.  W. 
Allen. 

But  notwithstanding  the  absence  of  the  governor,  short 
and  stirring  addresses  were  delivered  by  Colonel  L.  Bush  of 
Louisiana,  and  Colonels  G.  Flournoy  and  Hubbard  of  Texas. 
The  whole  affair  passed  off  pleasantly,  and  will  be  long 
remembered  by  all  those  who  participated  in  it.  We  felt 
grateful  at  this  complimentary  tribute  to  the  gallantry  and 
valor  of  Texans  by  the  citizens  and  fair  women  of  Louisiana. 
The  18th  of  February,  1865,  will  not  soon  be  forgotten  by  the 
immense  concourse  assembled  near  Shreveport.  On  the  19th 
General  Forney  received  orders  from  General  Buckner  to 
hold  his  division  in  readiness  to  move  to  Natchitoches.  At 
dress-parade,  the  following  address  was  read  to  us. 


WALKEB'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  291 


CHAPTEB  XXXVII. 


GENERAL  BUCKNER'S  ADDRESS. — ON  THE  MARCH. — DISMOUNTING  THE 
CAVALRY. — REINFORCEMENTS. — ORGANIZATION  OF  THE  4TH  BRIGADE. — 
SEARCHING  FOR  HONEY. 


[E  Lieutenant-Gen eral  commanding  desires  to  cau- 
tion the  troops  of  his  command  against  indulging  in 
unreasonable  expectations  of  peace.  The  policy  of 
our  enemy,  heretofore,  has  been  to  attempt  to  force  us  to 
comply  with  dishonorable  terms  which  they  have  proposed. 
The  question  should  be  willingly  left  where  the  Constitution 
of  the  countoy  places  it,  in  the  hands  of  the  President  and 
Senate.  It  is  our  duty  to  abide,  patiently,  their  action,  and  to 
continue,  as  soldiers,  to  prepare  for  a  prolonged  struggle  to 
rescue  the  independence  to  which  we  are  so  clearly  entitled. 
Our  vigilance,  energy,  and  determination  to  contend  for  the 
rights  which  we  claim,  should  be  in  no  degree  relaxed. 

By  command  of 

Lieut. -General  BUCKNEK. 

On  the  21st  we  took  up  the  line  of  march  in  the  direction 
of  Natchitoches  ;  marched  ten  miles,  and  camped  near  the  old 
Mansfield  road.  We  remained  at  this  camp  until  the  6th  of 
March.  While  at  this  camp,  the  following-named  cavalry 
regiments  were  dismounted  and  attached  to  our  division, 
viz.  : 

Colonel  CHISUM'S  2d  Regiment,  Texas  Partisan  Rangers. 
"      J.  H.  CANDLE'S  34th  Texas  Cavalry. 
"      J.  M.  WELLS' s 
"      DEMORSE'S  29th  " 

After  dismounting  the  cavalry,  another  brigade  was  organ- 


292 


WALKEK'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 


ized,  known  as  the  4th  Brigade.    W.  H.  King  was  assigned  to 
its  command.     It  consisted  of  the  following  regiments  : 

16th  T.  V.  Infantry,  commanded  by  Colonel  GEO.  FLOURNOY. 

18th  "  "  T.  M.  BONNER. 

28th  Texas  Dismounted  Cavalry,          "  "        E.  H.  BASTER. 

34th,  "  "       J.  H.  CANDLE. 

Wells  (no  number),  *'  "        J.  M.  WELLS. 

Col.  DEMORSE'S  29th  Dismounted  Cavalry  was  attached  to  Waul's  Brigade. 
Col.  CHISUM'S  2d  Partisan  Rangers  was  attached  to  Waterhouse's  Brigade. 


NAMES  OF  THE  OFFICERS  OF  THE   2D  REGIMENT  TEXAS    PAR- 
TISAN  RANGERS. 

Colonel — J.  CHISUM. 
Lieut.  Col. — C.  MILLER. 
Major— J.  G.  VANCE. 
Quartermaster— Capt.  W.  T.  BARNS. 
Surgeon — J.  C.  BRUBAKER. 
Adjutant — J.  O.  CRUTCHFIELD. 


Company  Officers 
COMPANY  A. 

Captain,  J.  W.  Wilson. 
1st  Lieut.,  H.  L.  Gilbert. 
2d  Lieut.,  B.  F.  McBride. 
2d  Lieut.,  M.  L.  Payne. 

COMPANY  B. 
Captain,  A.  J.  Hunt. 
1st  Lieut.,  A.  C.  Hoyle. 
2d  Lieut.,  S.  P.  Bell. 
2d  Lieut.,  D.  Jackson. 

COMPANY  C. 

Captain,  J.  G.  Williams, 
1st  Lieut.,  C.  Gour. 
2d  Lieut.,  A.  Brundrige. 
2d  Lieut.,  G.  P.  Porter. 

COMPANY  D. 
Captain,  T.  Foreman. 
1st  Lieut.,  J.  S.  Vest. 
2d  Lieut.,  I.  B.  Farmer. 
2d  Lieut.,  W.  D.  Vance. 


Company  Officers. 

COMPANY  E. 
Captain,  R.  L.  Askew. 
1st  Lieut.,  I.  Brooksier. 
2d  Lieut.,  S.  Garvin. 
2d  Lieut.,  T.  M.  Crowder. 

COMPANY  F. 
Captain,  R.  H.  Scott. 
1st  Lieut.,  F.  B.  Lilly. 
3d  Lieut.,  J.  Walker. 
2d  Lieut., . 

COMPANY  G. 
Captain,  J.  W.  Lane. 
1st  Lieut.,  J.  W.  Tregg. 
2d  Lieut.,  T.  H.Williams. 
2d  Lieut.,  J.  P.Wallace. 

COMPANY  H. 
Captain,  J.  D.  Stratten. 
1st  Lieut.,  A.  A.  Thomas. 
2d  Lieut.,  A.  G.  Jackson. 
2d  Lieut.,  J.  A.  Jackson. 


WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 


293 


COMPANY  I. 

Captain,  R.  H.  Harding. 
1st  Lieut.,  W.  S.  Murrell. 
2d  Lieut.,  (vacant.) 
3d  Lieut.,  (vacant.) 


COMPANY  K. 

Captain,  C.  L.  James. 
1st  Lieut.,  J.  0.  Heath. 
3d  Lieut.,  W.  V.Moore. 
2d  Lieut.,  J.  G.  Gibbs. 


NAMES  OF  THE  OFFICERS  OF  THE  29TH  REGIMENT  OF  TEXAS 
DISMOUNTED  CAVALRY. 

Colonel — CHAS.  DEMORSE. 
Lieut. -Colonel — OTIS  G.  WELCH. 
Major — JOSEPH  A.  CARROLL. 
Surgeon — R.  W.  REED. 
Assistant  Surgeon — E.  B.  ROCHTLLE. 
Quartermaster — JOHN  CARROLL. 
Adjutant— L.  C.  DEMORSE. 


Company  Officers. 
COMPANY  A. 

Captain,  J.  W.  Dougherty. 
1st  Lieut.,  A.  A.  Miller. 
2d  Lieut.,  W.  I.  McNeil. 
2d  Lieut.,  J.  J.  Smoot. 

COMPANY  B. 

Captain,  Nick  Wilson. 
1st  Lieut.,  A.  Z.  Bone. 
2d  Lieut.,  Eli  Tibbets. 
2d  Lieut.,  (vacant.) 

COMPANY  C. 

Captain,  W.  T.  Gunn. 
1st  Lieut.,  G.  W.  Pierce. 
2d  Lieut.,  R.  D.  Hancock. 
2d  Lieut.,  J.  W.  Hardison. 

COMPANY  D. 

Captain,  W.  H.  Hooks. 
1st  Lieut.,  Eli  Gaffney. 
2d  Lieut.,  G.  W.  Mitchell. 
2d  Lieut.,  Rufus  Mann. 


Company  Officers. 
COMPANY  E. 

Captain,  (vacant.) 
1st  Lieut.,  A.  J.  Zonnet. 
2d  Lieut.,  J.  W.  Robinson. 
2d  Lieut.,  H.  Tritt. 

COMPANY  F. 

Captain,  E.  R.  Oliver. 
1st  Lieut.,  P.  Fulbright. 
2d  Lieut.,  Jno.  A.  Franklin. 
2d  Lieut.,  Jno.  A.  Hooker. 

COMPANY  G. 

Captain,  W.  I.  T.  Littlejohn. 
1st  Lieut.,  D.  W.  Mosley. 
2d  Lieut.,  V.  Buyless. 
2d  Lieut.,  I.  E.  Byrd. 

COMPANY  H. 

Captain,  (vacant.) 

1st  Lieut.,    " 
|  2d  Lieut.,  F.  M.  Bonds. 
I  3d  Lieut., . 


294 


WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 


COMPANY  I. 

Captain,  (vacant.) 
1st  Lieut.,  R.  P.  Duty. 
2d  Lieut.,  W.  C.  Rainey. 
2d  Lieut.,  J.  G.  Attoway. 


COMPANY  K. 

Captain,  Thos.  R.  Wilson. 
1st  Lieut.,  W.  I.  Walker. 
2d  Lieut.,  R.  E.  D.  Smith. 
2d  Lieut.,  (vacant.) 


NAMES    OF    THE    OFFICERS    OF  THE    34TH    REGIMENT    TEXAS 
CAVALRY  DISMOUNTED. 

Colonel — JOHN  H.  CANDLE. 
Lieut. -Colonel — WM.  M.  BHUSH. 
Surgeon — FRANCIS  D.  CASH. 


Company  Officers. 

COMPANY  A. 
Captain,  Ed.  Baldwin. 
1st  Lieut.,  B.  F.  Martin. 
2d  Lieut.,  J.  H.  Hallford. 
2d  Lieut.,  J.  H.  Byas. 

COMPANY  B. 

Captain,  E.  T.  Morris. 
1st  Lieut.,  W.  C.  Hightower. 
2d  Lieut.,  A.  Gray. 
2d  Lieut.,  (vacant.) 

COMPANY  C. 
Captain,  L.  D.  Ross. 
1st  Lieut.,  M.  V.  Devitt. 
2d  Lieut.,  D.  L.  Ritchey. 
2d  Lieut.,  (vacant.) 

COMPANY  D. 

Captain,  A.  H.  R.  Bryant. 
1st  Lieut.,  W.  J.  Le willing. 
2d  Lieut.,  (vacant.) 
2d  Lieut.,  (vacant.) 

COMPANY  E. 

Captain,  A.  J.  Duckworth. 
1st  Lieut.,  J.  R.  Zourie. 
2d  Lieut.,  (vacant.) 
2d  Lieut.,  (vacant.) 


Company  Officers. 

COMPANY  F. 
Captain,  W.  Metcalf. 
1st  Lieut.,  B.  B.  Meders. 
2d  Lieut.,  (vacant.) 
2d  Lieut.,  (vacant.) 

COMPANY  G. 
Captain,  W.  N.  Brush. 
1st  Lieut.,  J.  M.  Fox. 
2d  Lieut.,  W.  G.  Barnes. 

2d  Lieut.,  (vacant.) 

COMPANY  H. 
Captain,  T.  J.  Dove. 
1st  Lieut.,  H.  Wheeler. 
2d  Lieut. ,  Thomas  Grant. 
2d  Lieut.,  J.  N.  Steel. 

COMPANY  I. 

Captain,  J.  H.  Roderick. 
1st  Lieut.,  J.  H.  Kincaid. 
2d  Lieut.,  W.  T.  James. 
2d  Lieut.,  (vacant.) 

COMPANY  K. 

Captain,  E.  B.  Titus. 
1st  Lieut.,  J.  M.  Blain. 
2d  Lieut.,  D.  H.  Bearden. 
2d  Lieut.,  (vacant.) 


WALKERS  TEXAS  DIVISION. 


295 


NAMES  OF  THE  OFFICERS  OF  "  WELLS'S  REGIMENT 
CAVALRY  DISMOUNTED. 


OF  TEXAS 


Colonel— J.  W.  WELLS. 
Lieut.-Col.—C.  GOOD. 
Major—  S.  E.  GILLETT. 
Quartermaster — W.  R.  WARREN. 
Commissary — J.  R.  MCDONALD. 
Surgeon — G.  G.  DUGGINS. 
Assistant  Surgeon — D.  W.  SWIGGART. 
Adjutant— Rt  W.  MATTHEWS. 


Company  Officers. 
COMPANY  A. 

Captain,  Julius  Harsliaw. 
1st  Lieut.,  F.  H.  Dun. 
2d  Lieut.,  J.  B.  Reagan. 
2d  Lieut.,  J.  E.  Jones. 

COMPANY  B. 

Captain,  L.  F.  Cook. 
1st  Lieut.,  J.  M.  Kennedy. 
3d  Lieut,  G.  W.  Thompson. 
2d  Lieut.,  T.  C.  Marsh. 

COMPANY  C. 

Captain,  D.  M.  Vanter. 
1st  Lieut.  W.  C.  Jones. 
2d  Lieut.,  R.R.  White. 
2d  Lieut.,  P.  H.  Lacy. 

COMPANY  D. 

Captain,  J.  J.  Edwards. 
1st  Lieut.,  J.  J.  Whittington. 
2d  Lieut.,  (vacant.) 
2d  Lieut.,  (vacant.) 

COMPANY  E. 

Captain,  J.  T.  Parrish. 
1st  Lieut.,  Robert  Edwards. 
2d  Lieut.,  (vacant.) 
2d  Lieut.,  (vacant.) 


Company  Officers. 
COMPANY  F. 

Captain,  R.  H.  Chapman. 
1st  Lieut.,  D.  J.  Marsh. 
2d  Lieut.,  A.  R.  Brown. 
2d  Lieut.,  A.  D.  Wallace. 

COMPANY  G. 

Captain,  (vacant.) 
1st  Lieut.,  D.  J.  Bear. 
2d  Lieut.,  P.  H.  Cross. 
2d Lieut.,  S.  M.  Weems. 

COMPANY  H. 

Captain,  T.  A.  Perkins. 
1st  Lieut. ,  J.  D.  Williams. 
2d  Lieut.,  J.  S.  Cross. 
2d  Lieut.,  (vacant.) 

COMPANY  I. 

Captain,  A.  P.  Ryan. 
1st  Lieut.,  T.  P.  Lockhart. 
2d  Lieut.,  J.  P.  Gatlin. 
2d  Lieut.,  (vacant.) 

COMPANY  K. 

Captain,  J.  N.  Daniel. 
1st  Lieut.,  A.  J.  Ward. 
2d  Lieut.,  S.  S.  Syday. 
2d  Lieut.,  (vacant.) 


296  WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 

After  the  dismounting  of  the  cavalry,  everything  passed  off 
quietly  in  camp.  The  reason  assigned  for  the  dismounting 
of  so  many  cavalry  regiments,  by  order  of  General  Kirby 
Smith,  was  owing  to  the  scarcity  of  corn  and  fodder  to  feed 
the  animals ;  and,  besides,  the  cavalry  branch  of  the  service 
was  larger  in  proportion  than  all  the  infantry  and  artillery 
combined,  in  the  Trans-Mississippi  Department. 

"While  remaining  at  this  camp,  near  Mansfield,  an  amusing 
and  laughable  incident  occurred  in  camp.  On  the  evening  of 
the  4th,  some  soldiers  paid  a  visit  te  Mr. 's  residence,  situ- 
ated a  few  miles  from  camp.  Mr. devoted  his  leisure 

time  to  the  raising  of  bees.  In  close  proximity  to  his  house 
were  some  dozen  of  bee-hives.  A  few  of  the  soldiers  attracted 

the  attention  of  Mr. in  telling  yarns  of  their  exploits  in 

the  war,  while  the  balance  of  them  were  engaged  in  helping 
themselves  to  his  honey.  The  following  morning  he  missed 
some  of  his  bee-hives,  and  at  once  reported  the  facts  to  the 
field-officer  of  the  day.  The  field-officer  of  the  day,  as  a  mat- 
ter of  course,  sympathized  with  him  in  the  loss  of  his  honey. 
He  told  him  he  would  give  him  the  privilege  of  making  a 
thorough  search  throughout  the  entire  camp,  and,  if  he  discov- 
ered the  honey,  to  report  the  facts  to  him  and  he  would  pun- 
ish the  guilty  parties. 

As  he  proceeded  from  mess  to  mess,  throwing  the  cooking 
utensils  about,  the  uproar  and  crowd  increased,  hollowing  at 
the  top  of  then:  voices,  "Here's  your  honey."  Unmercifully 
they  made  the  intruder  the  subject  of  witticisms  and  sly  jokes, 
making  honey  the  theme  of  it  all,  until  he  could  stand  the  as- 
sault no  longer. 

Turning  upon  his  persecutors  with  a  lugubrious  expression 
of  features  laughable  to  behold,  and  raising  his  stick  aloft,  he 
exclaimed:  "Gentlemen,  some  parties  took  three  bee-hives, 
and  not  satisfied  in  doing  that,  they  broke  into  my  store-room 
and  took  a  basket  containing  three  bottles  of  honey,  which  I 
had  engaged  to  one  of  my  neighbors.  I  care  not  for  the  honey 
that  the  thieving  rascals  stole ;  and  they  haven't  the  manli- 
ness to  acknowledge  it.  I  want  them  to  give  me  my  basket, 


WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  297 

if  not  the  honey.  Men,  the  basket  they  stole  belonged  to  my 
brother.  He's  in  the  Southern  army,  and  I  hate  to  lose  it. 
Give  me  my  basket,"  hollowing  at  the  top  of  his  voice.  J'No 
you  don't,  old  fel,"  said  a  voice ;  "you  want  somebody  to  bring 
you  the  basket,  and  then  take  him  up  for  stealing  your  honey. 
No  you  don't.  '  'Lasses  is  sweet,  but  honey  am  sweeter.' " 

Stooping  to  enter  a  tent,  he  was  assaulted  by  a  full  dose  of 
corn  meal  (scarce  as  it  was),  from  the  mischievous  occupant. 
As  he  suddenly  emerged,  sputtering  and  blowing  the  meal 
from  his  mouth  and  nostrils — a  serio-comic  spectacle — a  new 
uproar  greeted  him.  "  Take  him  out,"  said  one ;  "  hunting 
honey  is  a  pretense  ;  he  is  trying  to  steal  some  one's  '  blue 
beef.'"  Thus,  this  seeker,  after  having  lost  his  sweetness, 
was  assailed  on  all  sides  with  a  thousand  absurd  sugges- 
tions how  to  find  his  honey,  until,  almost  crazed,  he  fled  to  the 
officers'  quarters,  cursing  the  Texans,  and  swearing  that  there 
wasn't  an  honest  man  among  all  the  Texas  troops.  He  with- 
drew from  camp,  still  hearing  the  ringing  voices  of  the  men, 
"  Here's  your  honey." 

On  the  evening  of  the  5th,  General  Forney  received  orders 
from  General  Smith,  for  his  division  to  proceed  to  Hemp- 
stead,  Texas. 


298  WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 


CHAPTEE  XXXVIII. 


HOMEWARD  BOUND. — RETROGRADE  MOVEMENT. — LINE  OF  MARCH. — GENER- 
ALS SMITH,  MAGRUDER,  AND  FORNEY'S  ADDRESS  TO  THE  SOLDIERS. — 
NEGOTIATIONS  FOR  THE  SURRENDER  OF  THE  TRANS-MISSISSIPPI  DEPART- 
MENT.— ARRIVAL  AT  HEMPSTEAD. — DISBANDING  OF  THE  TROOPS. — 
FAREWELL  PARTING. 


JN  the  morning  of  the  6th,  the  division  was  formed  in 
line.  The  command  was  given  to  "  about  face."  We 
marched  back  the  same  road  we  came,  and  camped 
after  marching  ten  miles.  The  whole  command  was  exceed- 
ingly rejoiced  in  returning  to  their  beloved  State.  But,  as  the 
old  proverb  says,  "  Never  hollow  until  you  are  out  of  the 
woods."  Such  was  the  case  on  this  occasion ;  as,  the  fol- 
lowing morning,  we  "about-faced"  again  and  marched  eleven 
miles  back  the  same  road  we  marched  over  yesterday — the 
rain  pouring  down  in  torrents.  Many  were  the  murmurs  and 
curses  of  the  men,  at  being  disappointed  in  not  getting  to 
Texas. 

On  the  8th  marched  thirteen  miles;  passed  through  the 
heroic  town  of  Mansfield,  where  the  ladies  were,  as  usual,  glad 
to  see  the  "  Greyhounds." 

March  9th.  Marched  thirteen  miles.  After  arriving  in  camp 
we  were  visited  by  a  heavy  hail-storm. 

March  10th.  After  resting  until  about  4  o'clock,  P.  M.,  we 
took  up  the  line  of  march,  and  marched  six  miles.  We  re- 
mained at  this  camp  until  the  morning  of  the  12th,  when  we 
once  more  took  up  the  line  of  march  for  Texas.  Maiched 
fourteen  miles,  through  a  cold  and  drizzling  rain.  The  morn- 
ing of  the  13th  was  bitterly  cold,  yet  the  troops  traveled  mer- 
rily along  through  the  pine  woods,  entertaining  each  other 


WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  299 

with  jokes  and  all  manner  of  witty  fusilades.  Arrived  in 
camp  late  in  the  evening,  after  marching  thirteen  miles.  Af- 
ter our  arrival  in  camp  we  learned  that  the  enemy  was  fitting 
out  a  large  expedition  at  New  Orleans,  for  the  purpose  of  in- 
vading Texas.  We  also  received  information  that  all  of  Gen- 
eral Bee's  Cavalry  was  ordered  to  be  dismounted.  Two  of 
his  regiments  were  ordered  to  report  to  General  Forney,  at 
the  crossing  of  the  Sabine  Eiver,  but  failed  to  report. 

On  the  14th  we  marched  through  the  town  of  Keatchie.  The 
troops  were  hailed  with  enthusiasm  by  the  citizens.  Every 
door,  window,  and  house-roof  was  crowded  with  eager  spec- 
tators. We  arrived  in  camp  early  in  the  day,  after  marching 
six  miles. 

March  15th.  Marched  ten  miles  ;  crossed  the  State-line,  and 
camped  in  Texas  once  more.  Went  to  sleep  with  lighter 
hearts  than  we  did  since  we  left  our  beloved  State,  some  three 
years  ago. 

March  16th.  Marched  fifteen  miles,  and  camped  on  the  banks 
of  the  Sabine  Eiver. 

On  the  17th  we  crossed  the  Sabine  Eiver  at  Grand  Bluff,  in 
Panola  County.  At  the  point  of  crossing,  the  river  was  some 
fifty  yards  wide,  the  water  running  over  a  bed  of  sand  be- 
tween six  and  seven  feet  deep.  By  keeping  the  ferry-boat  in 
rapid  motion,  the  passage  was  made  without  difficulty.  After 
crossing  the  river  we  marched  three  miles  from  the  river-bank 
and  camped. 

March  18th.  Moved  camp  two  miles  further, and  camped  at  a 
stream  of  pure  water,  fringed  on  either  bank  with  large  cotton- 
wood  trees.  We  remained  at  this  camp  until  the  morning  of 
the  20th.  Game  was  in  abundance,  and  the  boys  enjoyed 
themselves  a-hunting. 

On  the  20th  we  took  up  the  line  of  march  again.  The 
weather  was  now  delightfully  cool  in  the  morning  and  even- 
ing, while  the  heat  of  the  sun  at  noonday  was  tempered  by 
a  fresh  breeze  from  the  south.  We  marched  thirteen  miles, 
through  a  thickly-timbered  and  well-watered  country.  Of 
timber  there  is  a  sufficiency  for  all  ordinary  purposes,  and 


300  WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 

the  day  must  come  when  this  section  will  support  a  thriving 
population.  We  camped  about  four  miles  from  a  village 
called  Kake  Pocket,  a  suitable  name  when  Confederate  money 
was  at  stake,  as  the  money  basis  of  the  country. 

Early  on  the  morning  of  the  22d,  we  took  up  the  line  of 
march.  After  marching  fifteen  miles  we  arrived  at  camp. 
As  soon  as  our  wagons  arrived,  the  animals  were  turned  out 
to  graze  until  dark,  when  they  were  brought  back  to  camp 
under  guard.  They  appeared  to  improve  very  much,  owing 
to  the  abundance  of  the  mesquite  grass. 

March  23d.  Our  march  to-day  was  nearly  due  west.  Game 
was  abundant.  In  the  distance,  looking  west,  a  line  of  high 
bluffs  had  been  seen,  supposed  to  be  the  hills  that  border 
the  town  o£  Eusk,  in  Cherokee  County.  We  arrived  in  camp 
early  in  the  day,  after  marching  ten  miles. 

On  the  24th,  while  pursuing  a  westerly  course,  with  the 
high  hills  in  plain  sight  before  us,  we  reached  a  swift-running 
creek,  where  we  camped  for  the  night,  after  marching  thirteen 
miles. 

March  25th.  After  marching  four  miles,  we  arrived  at  the 
neatly-located  town  of  Eusk.  The  town  is  located  between 
two  hills.  The  scenery  is  delightful.  The  population  con- 
sisted of  about  2,000  people.  After  passing  through  the 
town,  we  struck  camp  on  a  small  creek,  about  one  mile  south- 
west of  town. 

At  an  early  hour  on  the  morning  of  the  26th  we  were  on  the 
march.  The  atmosphere  was  delightfully  cool,  after  recent 
rains  which  had  fallen.  We  continued  our  march  in  a  south- 
westerly direction.  We  arrived  at  a  beautiful  valley,  where 
wood  and  water  were  plentiful.  A  beautiful  stream  of  water, 
some  twenty  feet  wide  and  six  inches  deep,  ran  through  the 
valley.  We  camped  at  this  creek  of  water,  after  marching 
fourteen  miles. 

As  usual,  on  the  morning  of  the  27th,  we  were  once  more 
on  the  march,  still  marching  in  a  southwesterly  course.  After 
marching  several  miles,  we  arrived  at  an  elevated  ridge.  From 
the  top  of  this  ridge  you  could  behold,  at  some  distance  off, 


WALKERS  TEXAS  DIVISION.  301 

the  roads  leading  to  the  towns  of  Henderson,  Crockett,  and 
Palestine.  The  country  we  traversed  to-day  was  a  poor,  un- 
fertilized, barren  country,  hardly  suitable  for  man  or  beast  to 
live  in.  The  soil  was  a  red  clay,  mixed  with  gravel.  Dwell- 
ing houses  were  few  and  far  between.  In  fact,  there  could  be 
no  comparison  between  it  and  the  poor,  sandy  soil  of  Arkan- 
sas. This  was  the  first  section  of  country  lying  west  of  the 
Sabine  Eiver  that  we  came  across  not  suitable  for  agricultural 
purposes,  but  very  well  adapted  for  manufacturing  purposes. 
We  arrived  in  camp  late  in  the  evening,  after  marching  four- 
teen miles  over  a  rocky  and  hilly  road. 

March  28th.  Marched  fourteen  miles.  Shortly  after  our  ar- 
rival in  camp  a  heavy  thunder-storm  took  place,  wetting  our 
clothes  and  extinguishing  our  camp-fires.  We  had  no  means  of 
shelter  to  keep  even  our  provisions  dry ;  consequently,  the 
following  morning  we  took  up  the  line  of  march,  wet  and  hun- 
gry. Marched  twelve  miles;  passed  through  the  town  of 
Crockett,  and  camped  two  miles  from  town,  where  we  remained 
until  the  morning  of  April  2d.  While  remaining  at  this  camp, 
General  Forney  ordered  company  drill  twice  a  day.  This  order 
seemed  not  to  give  satisfaction,  and  led  to  cries  all  over  camp 
of  "  Beef,  beef,  and  no  drill."  Orders  were  soon  issued  from 
division  headquarters  to  regimental  commanders,  to  have  all 
the  soldiers  that  hollowed  for  beef  arrested  ;  consequently,  the 
cry  of  "  beef "  was  stopped  amongst  the  troops  for  the  pres- 
ent. The  company-drill  exercise,  no  doubt,  would  have  been 
proper,  provided  we  had  been  in  a  permanent  camp  ;  but,  un- 
der the  circumstances,  a  little  rest  was  more  preferable. 
However,  the  duty  of  the  private  soldier  was  to  obey  orders, 
whether  right  or  wrong. 

On  the  morning  of  the  2d  we  took  up  the  line  of  march 
again,  traveling  in  the  direction  of  the  Trinity  Eiver. 
Marched  fifteen  miles,  and  camped  on  some  table-land  adjoin- 
ing the  bottom-land  of  the  Trinity  Eiver. 

April  3d.  Crossed  the  Trinity  Eiver,  and  continued  our 
march  about  twelve  miles.  Our  wagons  didn't  arrive  in  camp 
until  about  midnight. 


302  WAJLKEB'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 

April  4th.  Marched  five  miles,  and  camped  convenient  to 
a  pond  of  dirty  water,  which  we  were  compelled  to  use,  as 
there  was  no  other  within  a  long  distance  of  our  camp. 

April  5th.  Marched  fourteen  miles,  over  a  miserably  poor 
country.  Although  the  immediate  bottom  of  the  Trinity 
Eiver  is  good  soil,  of  a  dark  and  sandy  mould,  yet,  a  short 
distance  from  the  river-banks,  the  soil  is  generally  poor. 

April  6th.  Marched  fifteen  miles.  Our  march  to-day  was 
more  pleasant  than  yesterday's  march.  We  traveled  over  a 
country  of  picturesque  and  varied  scenery,  broken  into  rocky 
hills  of  singular  shapes ;  little  valleys,  with  pure  crystal  water 
here  leaping  swiftly  along,  and  there  losing  itself  in  the  sands ; 
timber  of  different  kinds— everything  to  give  it  a  varied 
beauty,  except  game. 

April  7th.  Marched  ten  miles.  The  weather  was  pleasant 
and  cool.  The  country  we  traveled  over  was  extremely  beauti- 
ful. The  farms  were  well  cultivated. 

The  morning  of  the  8th  opened  clear  and  beautiful,  and  the 
troops  seemed  anxious  to  get  to  Piedmont  Springs,  to  drink 
of  its  famous  waters.  We  arrived  at  camp,  situated  near  the 
springs  about  noontime.  The  springs  are  situated  alongside 
of  a  running  creek,  beautifully  timbered,  which  sweeps  closely 
around,  shutting  up  the  springs  in  a  kind  of  a  cove.  The 
water  has  a  very  agreeable  taste,  resembling  that  of  the 
famous  Seltzer  Springs,  in  the  grand  duchy  of  Nassau,  a 
country  famous  for  wine  and  mineral  waters  ;  and  it  is  almost 
entirely  of  the  same  character,  though  still  more  agreeable 
than  that  of  the  famous  Bear  Springs,  near  Bear  Eiver 
of  the  Great  Salt  Lake.  We  remained  at  the  springs,  appar- 
ently for  the  benefit  of  our  health,  until  the  morning  of  the 
13th,  when  we  took  up  the  line  of  march  for  Hempstead. 
Marched  eight  miles,  and  arrived  in  camp. 

April  14th.  Marched  fifteen  miles,  and  camped  near  Groce's 
Retreat. 

April  15th.  Marched  fifteen  miles,  and  camped  near  Camp 
Groce,  about  two  and  a  half  miles  from  Hempstead.  We 
remained  at  this  camp,  awaiting  further  orders.  The  troops 


WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  303 

appeared  to  be  in  buoyant  spirits  ;  many  of  their  friends  came 
from  distant  parts  of  the  State,  to  welcome  them  back  once 
more  to  their  beloved  State.  But,  alas !  the  sad  news  of  all 
the  Confederate  troops  east  of  the  Mississippi  Eiver,  seemed 
for  the  time  being  to  crush  their  spirits ;  but,  notwithstanding 
the  various  rumors  afloat,  the  troops  of  the  division  continued 
to  do  their  duty  in  a  cheerful  manner.  Many  of  them  believed 
the  war  would  be  continued  west  of  the  river,  and  that  we 
would  be  reinforced  from  across  the  Mississippi  Kiver.  Their 
patriotism  was  irreproachable,  notwithstanding  they  had  heard 
that  the  armies  of  Generals  Lee,  Johnston  and  Taylor  had  sur- 
rendered. They  awaited  patiently  to  hear  General  Kirby 
Smith's  programme.  But,  alas !  they  were  soon  given  to  un- 
derstand that  General  Kirby  Smith  considered  that  any  further 
resistance  on  his  part  would  be  in  vain.  He  was  willing  and 
ready  to  surrender  the  Trans-Mississippi  Department  at  any 
moment. 

In  the  mean  time,  stirring  addresses  were  made  to  the  troops 
to  stand  by  their  colors  to  the  last  moment,  by  Generals 
Smith,  Magruder,  "Walker,  Forney,  etc.,  etc.,  as  follows  : 

GENERAL  SMITH'S  ADDRESS. 

SOLDIERS  OF  THE  TRANS-MISSISSIPPI  ARMY  : 

The  crisis  of  our  revolution  is  at  hand.  Great  disasters 
have  overtaken  us.  The  army  of  Northern  Virginia  and  our 
Commander-in-Chief  are  prisoners  of  war.  With  you  rest 
the  hopes  of  our  nation,  and  upon  your  action  depends  the 
fate  of  our  people.  I  appeal  to  you  in  the  name  of  the  cause 
you  have  so  heroically  maintained — in  the  name  of  your  fire- 
sides and  families,  so  dear  to  you — in  the  name  of  your  bleed- 
ing country,  whose  fate  is  in  your  hands.  Show  that  you  are 
worthy  of  your  position  in  history.  Prove  to  the  world  that 
your  hearts  have  not  failed  in  the  hour  of  disaster,  and  that, 
at  the  last  moment,  you  will  sustain  the  holy  cause  which 
has  been  so  gloriously  battled  for  by  your  brethren  east  of 
the  Mississippi  Eiver. 


304  WALKEK'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 

You  possess  the  means  of  long  resisting  invasion.  You 
Lave  hopes  of  succor  from  abroad.  Piotract  the  struggle, 
and  you  will  surely  receive  the  aid  of  nations  which  already 
deeply  sympathize  with  you. 

Stand  by  your  colors ;  maintain  your  discipline.  The  great 
resources  of  this  department,  its  vast  extent,  the  numbers,  the 
discipline,  and  the  efficiency  of  the  army,  will  secure  to  our 
country  terms  that  a  proud  people  can  with  honor  accept,  and 
may,  under  the  providence  of  God,  be  the  means  of  checking 
the  triumph  of  our  enemy,  and  of  securing  the  final  success  of 
our  cause. 

GENERAL    MAGRUDER'S  ADDRESS. 

The  Major-General  commanding  the  District  of  Texas,  New 
Mexico,  and  Arizona,  deems  it  proper,  in  view  of  recent  events, 
to  call  upon  the  army  and  patriotism  worthy  of  the  holy  cause 
of  liberty  and  independence,  and  of  the  great  efforts  hereto- 
fore made  by  the  army  and  the  people  of  Texas  to  advocate 
and  uphold  it. 

The  enemy  threatens  our  coast,  and  will  bring  his  great, 
undivided  resources  for  a  successful  invasion  of  the  State. 
Let  him  be  met  with  unanimity  and  Spartan  courage,  and  he 
will  be  unsuccessful,  as  he  has  been  in  Texas. 

Let  him  be  met  at  the  water's  edge,  and  let  him  pay  dearly 
for  every  inch  of  territory  he  may  acquire.  Six  hundred 
Frenchmen,  under  the  first  Napoleon,  recaptured  France  from 
her  enemies. 

Forty-two  Irish  soldiers,  on  our  soil,  drove  fifteen  thousand 
men  to  sea. 

The  army  of  the  Trans-Mississippi  Department  is  larger,  in 
finer  order,  and  better  supplied  than  ever.  There  are  no 
navigable  streams  in  Texas ;  therefore  the  enemy  will  be 
divested  of  the  great  power  of  steam,  which  he  has  elsewhere 
relied  upon. 

Crops  have  been  bountiful.  Our  armies  can  therefore  be 
supplied  in  almost  any  part  of  Texas. 

There  is  no  reason  for  despondency ;  and,  if  the  people  of 


WALKEB'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  305 

Texas  will  it,  they  can  successfully  defend  their  territory  for 
an  indefinite  period. 

The  Major-General  commanding  therefore  exhorts  the  sol- 
diers of  the  army  to  stand  firmly  by  their  colors,  and  obey  the 
orders  of  their  officers  ;  and  recommends  to  the  citizens,  that 
they  devote  themselves  still  more  fully  to  the  cultivation  of 
breadstuffs ;  for,  should  our  armies  be  unsuccessful  in  the  East, 
every  gallant  soldier  will  rally  to  the  banner  of  the  Confed- 
eracy, which  will  still  float  defiantly  west  of  the  Mississippi 
River. 

GENERAL  FORNEY'S  ADDRESS. 

After  having  been  so  long  and  so  arduously  engaged  in  the 
service  of  your  country,  I  know  that  the  news  from  the  other 
side  of  the  Mississippi  Eiver  is  calculated  to  depress  your 
spirits,  and  I  therefore  desire  to  say  to  you  a  few  plain  words. 
And  I  call  upon  you  to  listen  to  me,  as  one  that  has  the  same 
interest  at  stake  as  yourselves.  You  should  recollect  that  all 
the  news  we  have  received  is  from  Northern  telegrams,  direct 
from  the  hands  of  our  enemies,  who  would  much  rather  whip 
us  by  dispatches  than  any  other  way.  They  tell  us  that  our 
friends  in  the  East  are  whipped,  have  surrendered,  and  are 
conquered.  Some  of  it  may  be  true,  but  a  good  deal  of  it  is, 
doubtless,  false.  In  this  uncertainty,  let  us  hope  for  the  best, 
but  be  prepared  for  the  worst.  At  the  same  time,  I  conjure 
you  to  stand  firm. 

Let  us  wait  to  hear  from  our  own  side  of  the  question.  Of 
course  the  news  is  far  from  cheering.  We  all  feel  depressed. 
We  all  feel  that  it  is  time  to  consider  well  how  to  act.  But  it 
grieves  me  to  learn  that  some  of  you,  I  cannot  think  many, 
are  willing  to  sacrifice  the  fair  renown  of  the  division  by  leav- 
ing it  now ;  and  it  is  to  them  that  I  am  speaking. 

But  why  are  you  acting  thus  ?  Think  !  are  you  acting  hon- 
orably, nobly,  wisely  ?  It  is  full  a  thousand  miles  to  the  scene 
of  action  in  Virginia  and  North  Carolina.  Shall  the  great 
State  of  Texas  quail  before  the  enemy  has  come  within  sight 
of  her  shores  ?  And  shall  the  proud  men  of  Texas  throw  down 
20 


306  WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 

their  arms,  and  run  cowardly  home,  before  the  enemy  has  set 
foot  in  the  State,  or  they  have  even  been  asked  to  surrender? 
Should  the  worst  come  to  the  worst,  you  certainly  can  make 
better  terms  and  stipulations  banded  together  as  an  army  and 
with  arms  in  your  hands  than  you  can  scattered  and  dispersed 
all  over  the  country.  Should  the  enemy  invade  this  country 
in  large  force,  you  surely  cannot  believe  that  your  generals 
would  be  guilty  of  the  madness  of  sacrificing  your  lives,  with- 
out a  strong  probability  of  success,  and  unless  there  was  some 
great  end  to  be  obtained.  In  conclusion,  I  appeal  to  you  as 
men  and  soldiers — I  ask  you  for  the  honor  of  your  State  and 
your  honor  ;  in  the  name  of  your  wives  and  children  ;  in  the 
name  of  those  gallant  Texans  who  have  fought  and  toiled  on 
every  battle-field  of  this  war — to  do  your  duty  orderly  and 
quietly,  till  the  proper  authorities  shall  say  when  and  on  what 
terms  we  shall  be  discharged.  My  interest  is  the  same,  and  is 
identified  with  yours.  My  only  object  is  now,  and  will  be,  to 
do  what  I  conceive  to  be  the  best  for  you  and  the  country  at 
at  large. 

Be  firm  and  irreproachable.  When  we  get  to  our  homes, 
let  it  be  with  honorable  discharges  in  our  hands. 

On  the  morning  of  May  1st,  a  Federal  officer,  named 
Colonel  Sprague,  arrived  at  the  mouth  of  Bed  Eiver,  with 
dispatches  from  General  Canby  to  General  Smith.  General 
Smith  sent  Colonel  Flournoy,  of  the  16th  Texas  Infantry,  and 
Colonel  Alston,  of  his  staff  (under  flag  of  truce),  to  meet 
Colonel  Sprague,  and  learn  the  nature  of  his  dispatches. 
On  meeting  with  Colonel  Sprague,  he  informed  them  that  he 
was  sent  by  General  Canby  to  demand  of  General  Smith  the 
surrender  of  the  Trans-Mississippi  Department.  It  appears 
that  Colonels  Flournoy  and  Alston  did  not  have  the  authority 
to  act  for  General  Smith ;  consequently,  they  returned  to 
Shreveport,  bearing  the  dispatches  to  General  Smith,  for  him 
to  act  according  to  his  judgment.  The  troops  hearing  that 
General  Kirby  Smith  was  about  to  surrender,  confusion  worse 
confounded  reigned  everywhere,  among  the  troops  and  citizens. 


WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  307 

The  soldiers  were  gathered  in  groups  everywhere,  discussing 
the  approaching  surrender.  Curses,  deep  and  bitter,  fell 
from  lips  not  accustomed  to  use  such  language ;  while  num- 
bers, both  officers  and  men,  swore  fearful  oaths  never  to  sur- 
render. It  was  such  a  scene  as  one  seldom  cares  to  witness. 
The  depth  of  feeling  exhibited  by  compressed  lips,  pale  faces, 
and  blazing  eyes,  told  a  fearful  story  of  how  bitter  was  the 
hopeless  surrender  of  the  cause  for  which  they  had  fought, 
toiled,  suffered  for  long  years.  The  humiliation  was  un- 
bearable. For  nearly  four  years  had  "  Walker's  Division  " 
battled  for  the  South,  homes,  and  freedom ;  for  nearly  four  years 
of  horrors,  suffering,  toil,  and  bloodshed,  they  had  trod  the  soil 
of  Arkansas  and  Louisiana,  and  left  their  heroic  dead  upon 
the  hills  and  plains  of  those  States ;  and  now,  once  more  in 
their  native  State,  they  are  to  witness  the  final  overthrow  of  the 
Confederate  government.  They  must  relinquish  their  arms,  and 
see  their  proud  banner  trailed  in  the  dust,  never  more  to  be 
raised  by  mortal  hands.  "What  a  torturing  reality  for  their 
brave  and  noble  spirits  ! 

The  morning  of  the  19th  found  the  majority  5?  We'  troops 
gone  or  preparing  to  leave.  They  were  allowed  to  take  a 
wagon  to  each  company.  On  the  evening  of  the  20th,  the 
balance  of  the  troops  that  remained  were  furloughed,  or, 
more  properly,  discharged  from  the  Confederate  army. 
The  parting  among  the  troops  was  most  affecting.  Many 
put  their  arms  around  each  other's  necks,  and  sobbed  like 
children;  others  gave  the  strong  grasp  of  the  hand,  and 
silently  went  away  with  hearts  too  full  for  utterance ;  while 
still  others  would  mutter  a  huskily-spoken  "Good-bye"  or 
deep  oath.  Such  were  some  of  the  farewell  scenes.  To- 
gether in  battle  or  camp,  in  sunshine  and  in  storm,  in  suf- 
ering  and  pleasure,  in  sorrow  and  joy,  on  the  weary  and  toil- 
some march,  no  wonder  that  their  hearts  were  linked  together 
in  bands  of  steel,  with  ties  unspeakable,  inexpressible.  No 
wonder  the  parting — perhaps  for  years,  perhaps  forever — 
wrung  their  souls  with  torturing  agony. 


j- 


WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 


CHAPTER  XXXIX. 

* 

THE  "  PEKSONNEL  "  OF  THE  DIVISION,  AND   HOW  THEY  ACCEPT  THE 
SITUATION. 

N  events  of  unusually  startling  nature,  the  mind  natu- 
rally investigates  causes,  reasoning  from  these  to  the 
effect  produced.  Thus,  in  reading  the  history  of  this 
gallant  organization,  the  peruser  inquires,  "  Who  and  what 
were  these  men  ?  "  Let  us  answer.  The  members  of  Walker's 
Texas  Division  were  principally  men  of  high  social  standing 
at  home  ;  intelligent,  refined,  young, — the  fires  of  youth  glow- 
ing in  their  stalwart  forms,  voluntarily  offering  their  services 
to  their  country.  They  were  actuated  by  a  firm  conviction  of 
the  justice  of  their  cause.  From  workshop  and  counter, 
from  cottage  and  mansion,  from  the  lordly  plantation  and  the 
crowded  city  they  came,  standing  side  by  side  in  defense  of 
a  common  cause.  Look  at  them  !  the  fire  of  a  fixed  deter- 
mination glowing  in  their  clear,  bright  eyes ;  the  strength  of  a 
settled  purpose  evinced  in  their  firm  tread  and  upright  car- 
riage. 

No  wonder  that  they  distinguished  themselves  on  the 
battle-field,  covering  themselves  with  ah  imperishable  glory. 
There  is  not  to-day  a  man  living  who  ever  doubted  the  courage 
and  gallantry  of  the  whole  division.  Thus  they  fought 
through  the  stirring  scenes  of  the  whole  war,  and  when  the 
inevitable  decrees  of  fate  decided  against  them,  they  accepted 
the  issue  as  brave  men  only  could. 

If  they  were  gallant  soldiers,  now  they  are  good  citizens, 
and  can  be  implicitly  trusted  in  their  fealty  to  the  govern- 
ment. They  feel  that  they  have  been  overpowered,  and 
accept  the  situation  as  brave  and  honorable  men — such  men  as 
Generals  T.  N.Waul,  W.  H.  King,R.  Waterhouse,  and  Colonels 


WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  309 

i 

Overton  Young,  O.  M.  Roberts,  James  H.  Jones,  John  H. 
Burnett,  W.  A.  Crawford,  Ed.  Clarke,  Wm.  Byrd,  Geo.  Flour- 
noy,  James  E.  Shepard,  Wm.  Fitzhugh,  E.  P.  Gregg,  T.  P. 
Allen,  Geo.  W.  Jones,  E.  W.  Taylor,  W.  L.  Crawford,  D.  B. 
Culbertson,  Thos.  E.  Bonner,  E.  B.  Hubbard,  J.  J.  Cannon, 
E.  H.  Baxter,  E.  S.  Gould,  etc. 

They  are  considered  the  most  trustworthy  of  citizens. 
Many  of  them  have  held  some  of  the  highest  offices  of  this 
State.  Yet  they  were  the  first  to  answer  to  the  bugle-call. 
These  are  all  true  men.  In  financial  and  commercial  circles, 
at  the  bar,  in  the  workshop,  at  the  bench  and  counter,  in 
the  fields,  they  are  striving  to  rebuild  their  fallen  fortunes — 
striving  to  regain  the  loss  inflicted  during  the  war.  They  are 
neither  despondent  nor  despairing,  but  work  with  alacrity  and 
cheerfulness,  to  repair  the  many  ravages  of  the  conflict.  Such 
are  the  positions  of  men  who  gave  fortunes  and  staked  their 
lives  on  the  issue  of  the  war.  The  heroism  displayed  in 
accepting  their  defeat  is  not  less  praiseworthy  than  their 
undaunted  bearing  in  the  deadly  battle-field. 


310  WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 


CHAPTEE  XL. 


SURRENDER  OF  THE  TRANS-MISSISSIPPI  DEPARTMENT. 


of  a  military  convention,  entered  into  this  26th 
day  of  May,  1865,  at  New  Orleans,  between  General 
E.  Kirby  Smith,  commanding  the  department  of 
Trans-Mississippi,  and  Major-General  E.  R.  S.  Canby,  U.  S. 
Army,  commanding  the  army  and  division  of  West  Mississippi, 
for  the  surrender  of  the  troops  and  public  property  under  the 
control  of  the  military  and  naval  authorities  of  the  Trans- 
Mississippi  Department. 

I.  All  acts  of  war  and  resistance  against  the  United  States, 
on  the  part  of  the  troops  under  General  Smith,  shall  cease 
from  this  date. 

II.  The  officers  and  men  to  be  paroled,  until  duly  exchanged, 
or  otherwise  released  from  the   obligations  of  their  parole, 
by  the  authorities  of  the  Government  of  the  United  States. 
Duplicate  rolls  of  all  officers  and  men  paroled  to  be  returned 
by  each  officer,  as  may  be  designated  by  the  parties  hereto, 
officers  giving  their    individual  paroles,  and  commanders  of 
regiments,  battalions,  companies,  and  detachments  signing  a 
like  parole  for  the  men  of  their  respective  commands. 

III.  Artillery,  small  arms,  ammunition,  and  other  property 
of  the  Confederate  States  Government,  including  gun-boaHs 
and  transports,  to  be  turned  over  to  the  officers  appointed  to 
receive  the  same  on  the  part  of  the  Government  of  the  United 
States,  duplicate  inventories  of  the  property  to  be  surrendered 
to  be  prepared,  one  copy  to  be  retained  by  the  officer  deliver- 
ing, and  the  other  by  the  officer  receiving,  for  the  information 
of  their  respective  commanders. 

IY.  The  officers  and  men  paroled  under  this  agreement  will 


WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION.  311 

be  allowed  to  return  to  their  homes,  with  the  assurance  that 
they  will  not  be  disturbed  by  the  authorities  of  the  United 
States,  as  long  as  they  continue  to  observe  the  conditions  of 
their  parole,  and  the  laws  in  force  where  they  reside  ;  except 
that  persons  residents  in  the  Northern  States,  and  not  excepted 
in  the  amnesty  proclamation  of  the  President,  may  return  to 
their  homes  on  taking  the  oath  of  allegiance  to  the  United 
States. 

V.  The  surrender  of  property  will  not  include  the  side- 
arms,  or  private  horses,  or  baggage  of  officers. 

YI.  All  horses  which  are  in  good  faith  the  private  property 
of  enlisted  men  will  not  be  taken  from  them.  The  men  will 
be  permitted  to  take  such  with  them  to  their  homes,  to  be 
used  for  private  property  only. 

YII.  The  time,  mode,  and  place  of  paroling  and  the  surren- 
der of  property  will  be  fixed  by  their  respective  commanders, 
and  it  will  be  carried  out  by  commissioners  appointed  by 
them. 

VIII.  The  terms  and  conditions  of  this  surrender  to  extend 
to  all  officers  and  men  of  the  army  and  navy  of  the  Confeder- 
ate States,  or  any  of  them,  being  in  or  belonging  to  the  Trans- 
Mississippi  Department. 

IX.  Transportation  and  subsistence  to  be  furnished  at  pub- 
lic cost  for  the  officers  and  men,  after  parole,  to  the  nearest 
practicable  point  to  their  homes. 

(Signed,)     S.  B.  BUCKNEE, 
Lieut.  Gen.  and  Chief  of  Staff,  for  Gen.  E.  K.  SMITH. 

P.  J.  OSTEKHOUSE, 

Major-General  and  Chief  of  Staff,  for  Major-Gen.  CANBY. 


312  WALKEB'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 


APPENDIX. 


I  CANNOT  close  this  volume  without  a  special  acknowledg- 
ment of  my  indebtedness  to  my  friends  for  their  interest  in 
my  labors,  and  for  furnishing  me  the  necessary  funds  to  have 
my  book  published,  as  well  as  furnishing  me  with  valuable 
documents  and  papers.  I  sincerely  trust  that  they  may  feel 
repaid  by  a  perusal  of  its  pages. 

J.  P.  BLESSINGTON. 


WALKER'S  TEXAS  DIVISION,  313 


CONCLUSION. 


IN  closing  this  chronicle,  I  regret  that  many  a  noble  deed 
and  daring  act,  done  by  the  men  of  "  Walker's  Division," 
should  be  left  unnoticed ;  but  the  necessity  of  keeping  my 
record  within  reasonable  limits  has  compelled  brevity  in  all 
my  narrations,  and  what  I  have  considered  a  judicious  selec- 
tion, under  ah1  the  circumstances,  of  the  facts  that  are  con- 
tained in  this  book.  There  has  been  no  necessity  with  me  to 
draw  on  the  imagination  in  order  to  be  able  to  fill  a  certain 
number  of  pages.  The  only  trouble  has  been  to  give  such 
facts  as  would  portray  the  courage  and  consistency  of  our 
men.  Indeed,  it  needed  not  the  potent  aid  of  fiction,  as  in 
many  other  accounts  of  warlike  events,  to  preserve  the  name 
of  "  Walker's  Division." 

I  haye  thus  briefly  sketched  the  services  of  the  gallant 
troops,  during  the  late  war.  I  have  labored  to  be  as  correct 
and  impartial  as  possible,  and  if  I  have  in  any  way  failed  in 
the  prosecution  of  this  important  task,  it  has  been  through 
no  feeling  of  partiality  of  mine.  I  trust  that  my  readers,  one 
and  all,  and  I  know  many  of  the  gallant  members  of  my  old 
division,  at  least,  will  believe  me,  when  I  say  that  my  object 
in  putting  this  work  before  the  public  has  not  been  of  a  sor- 
did nature ;  and  if  I,  by  my  publication,  keep  from  oblivion 
the  deeds  of  the  fathers  of  the  future  generations  of  Texas, 
my  desire  is  accomplished — my  most  ardent  wish  gratified. 

Let  the  veil  of  obscurity  fall  over  the  deeds  of  those  who 
often  were  misled  during  moments  of  excitement,  or  blindly 
followed  their  own  wishes  in  preference  to  military  orders. 
The  curtain  falls  upon  the  bloody  drama  of  war ;  the  foot- 


314  WALKEB'S  TEXAS  DIVISION. 

lights  have  been  extinguished ;  the  actors  have  all  departed ; 
the  audience  of  the  world's  wondering  nations  turned  to  other 
scenes.  The  pen  which  has  dotted  these  reminiscences 
through  long  and  weary  years  is  laid  aside,  as  white-winged 
peace,  all  radiant  with  joy,  settles  down  once  more  upon  the 
land  of  Columbia. 

"How  vain,  how  frail,  how  transitory 

This  world,  with  all  its  pomp  and  show  ! 
Its  mighty  names  renowned  in  story, 
They've  gladly  left  them  all  below." 


